On occasions, when we look at the tongue through a mirror and notice a map-like surface, this warns us that we may be suffering from a disorder called geographic tongue.
This condition usually begins in childhood and may be affecting approximately 10% of the world population, with greater recurrence in women.
In the following article, we will give you the information you need to know about the geographic tongue, its most relevant characteristics and what may be the causes of its appearance.
What is the geographic tongue?
Geographic tongue or benign migratory glossitis is an inflammatory process that affects the anterior and lateral surfaces of the tongue. It appears as small red spots in the form of an island, caused by the detachment of the filiform papillae, leaving a smooth surface. (1)
This lesion is formed as patches, which can move from one place to another on the surface of the tongue and can cause a burning sensation, which limits the action of eating or wanting to communicate orally.
You should know: This disorder does not represent any danger to health, since it is not a disease and it is not contagious either.
It should be noted that migratory glossitis seems to have a greater presence in patients who have suffered from other diseases such as diabetes mellitus, some types of dermatitis such as atopic dermatitis or seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis.
What produces the geographic tongue?
The causes for which this condition appears are not exactly established (2) , however they are attributed to the following circumstances:
1. Vitamin deficiency
One of the reasons to which the appearance of the geographic tongue is attributed is due to the deficiency of nutrients ( vitamins ) in the daily diet.
These deficiencies involve minerals such as iron or zinc and vitamins such as niacin , riboflavin and/or vitamin B12. In developing countries, the appearance and recurrence of this disorder is attributed to protein-calorie malnutrition.
Important: Some clinical trials suggest that zinc deficiency is related to the appearance of geographic tongue. (3)
2. Spicy foods, alcohol and cigarettes
Spicy or acidic foods, alcohol and cigarette consumption can easily cause geographic tongue to appear. Spicy and acidic foods often cause irritation and erosion on the back of the tongue , as well as tobacco can cause dry mouth by promoting the proliferation and keratinization of mucosal epithelial cells.
To highlight: If this disorder is not treated promptly, patients with geographic tongue often evolve into a scrotal tongue (lesion characterized by fissures on its surface), as well as annoying thrush or sores on the tongue .
3. Hormonal changes, stress and anxiety
These lesions can also arise due to hormonal changes especially in women during the women’s menstrual cycle. For their part, stress and anxiety constitute other triggers in the appearance of these lesions, because these psychological disorders can alter the emotional and chemical balance of the organism , giving the opportunity for the appearance of geographic tongue.
Note: Certain clinical studies have indicated the association between tobacco and stress or between alcohol and emotional stress, in the appearance of geographic tongue. (4)
4. Systemic, cardiovascular or respiratory diseases
The literature that has dealt with this subject has related the suffering of diseases such as hypertension, flu or diabetes in the appearance of geographic tongue.
You should know: There are clinical trials where the association between suffering from diabetes mellitus and geographic tongue is demonstrated. (5)
How do you remove geographic tongue?
The treatment to eliminate geographic tongue is not complicated and by following the following tips you will be able to overcome it promptly:
1. Perform proper oral hygiene
In view of the above considerations, we can easily reach the conclusion about the importance of proper oral hygiene, especially cleaning the tongue , to minimize the harmful impact that the accumulation of food debris can cause, as well as the proliferation and accumulation of bacteria on the tongue.
Important: Oral health has to start from an early age to ensure good teaching and the creation of sustainable habits. (6)
2. Avoid consumption of triggering foods and substances
Another aspect that we must take into consideration is the moderate consumption of food and drinks that can deteriorate the health of the oral cavity, especially the tongue, and thus prevent the appearance of geographic tongue.
To highlight: In this case, the patient must be informed about the risk factors and circumstances that may contribute to the exacerbation of this disorder.
3. Pain relievers, ointments and vitamin supplements
When hygienic measures do not cause a favorable response within the period of treatment, then other therapeutic strategies should be taken to reduce and eliminate geographic tongue.
Note: Your doctor can prescribe analgesic medicines, ointments or ointments if the case requires it, or if vitamin and mineral deficiency is suspected, supplements may be indicated.
Key Findings
- Geographic tongue consists of an inflammatory process that affects the anterior and lateral surfaces of the tongue.
- This condition is not considered a disease , but rather a disorder.
- Geographic tongue does not cause damage to general health, nor is it contagious.
- Oral hygiene is considered the main triggering factor for this disorder.
- To treat this condition , medical participation and guidance is required.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.