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Geographic tongue is a map-like appearance of your tongue due to irregular patches on its surface.
Alternative NamesPatches on the tongue; Tongue - patchy; Benign migratory glossitis; Glossitis - benign migratory
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsThe specific cause of geographic tongue is unknown, although vitamin B deficiency may be involved. Other causes may include irritation from hot or spicy foods, or alcohol. The condition appears to be less common in smokers.
The pattern on the surface of the tongue may change very rapidly. This pattern change occurs when there is a loss of the tiny, finger-like projections, called papillae, on the tongue's surface. This makes areas of the tongue flat. These areas are said to be "denuded." Denuded areas may persist for more than a month.
Symptoms- Map-like appearance to the surface of the tongue
- Patches that change location from day to day
- Smooth, beefy red patches and lesions on the tongue
- Soreness and burning pain (in some cases)
Your doctor will usually diagnose this condition based on an examination of your tongue. Tests are usually not necessary.
TreatmentThere is no treatment.
Expectations (prognosis)Geographic tongue is a harmless condition, but it can be persistent and uncomfortable.
Calling your health care providerCall your doctor if the symptoms last longer than 10 days. Seek immediate medical help if:
- Breathing trouble occurs
- The tongue is severely swollen
- There are problems with speaking, chewing, or swallowing
Avoid irritating your tongue with hot or spicy food or alcohol if you are prone to this condition.
ReferencesGoldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine, 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004:2428.
Shulman JD. Prevalence and risk factors associated with geographic tongue among US adults. Oral Dis. Jul 2006; 12(4): 381-6.
What else can I help you with?
Can you get your tongue pierced with geographic tongue?
It is generally not recommended to get a tongue piercing with a geographic tongue, as it may increase the risk of complications such as infection and irritation. It is best to consult with a professional piercer or healthcare provider for personalized advice on whether or not it is safe to proceed with the piercing.
What is map tongue?
One of the places where taste receptors are found is on the tongue. These can be mapped. Sweet is usually found in greater numbers on the tip.
What are purple stripes on the side of tongue?
Purple stripes on the side of the tongue may be due to a condition called benign migratory glossitis, also known as geographic tongue. It is a harmless and typically painless condition where the tongue develops irregular, smooth, red patches with a white border. It is usually not a cause for concern, but if you have any discomfort or concerns, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.
Is tongue a verb?
Yes, "tongue" can be a verb meaning to touch or lick with the tongue.
Is this how you spell tongue?
No, the correct spelling of the word is "tongue".
Is geographic tongue hereditary?
I believe it is. My grandmother has a geographic tongue and I do too.
Can you get your tongue pierced with geographic tongue?
It is generally not recommended to get a tongue piercing with a geographic tongue, as it may increase the risk of complications such as infection and irritation. It is best to consult with a professional piercer or healthcare provider for personalized advice on whether or not it is safe to proceed with the piercing.
What is map tongue?
One of the places where taste receptors are found is on the tongue. These can be mapped. Sweet is usually found in greater numbers on the tip.
Why do you have cracks in your tongue?
A tongue that is constantly peeling for almost no reason at all is called a geographical tongue. Geographic tongue is a harmless (benign) oral condition that gives your tongue a map-like, or geographic, appearance. The distinct look of geographic tongue occurs when parts of your tongue are missing the layer of small bumps called papillae. This causes irregularly shaped smooth, red patches to form on parts of your tongue, like a rash. Although geographic tongue may look alarming, it doesn't cause any health problems and isn't associated with infection or cancer. Geographic tongue is usually painless but can sometimes cause tongue discomfort and increased sensitivity to certain substances. Geographic tongue often heals in one area and then moves (migrates) to a different part of your tongue. Geographic tongue is also known as benign migratory glossitis. If you have further issues that are of concern please contact your doctor as soon as possible.
What does geographic tongue look like?
Ask Gene Simmons.
What is the red blisters on the back of your tongue?
There are multiple factors that could cause a tongue to develop red blisters. Vitamin deficiencies, geographic tongue, scarlet fever and Kawasaki syndrome are among these factors.
What are White circles on the tongue that are red in the center?
White circles on the tongue could be many things. It could be mouth sores, it could be a geographic tongue, or it could be a reaction to something the person ate.
How does geographic tongue looks like?
Geographic tongue can look different ways...in a fairly mild case, the tongue would have a slight loss of taste buds alongs the edges of the tongue. In a mre typical case, there would be what looks like bald patches on the tongue with white surrounding the patch, being clearly visible. A more severe case may develope a crack, some being 1/4 of a n inch deep.
What is road map tongue?
"Road map tongue" is a descriptive term used to refer to a geographic or linear pattern of fissures on the surface of the tongue. It is a benign condition known as fissured tongue or scrotal tongue, which is typically harmless and may not require treatment unless symptoms like irritation occur.
What are white discolorations on a child's tongue but not thrush?
My daughter has this and her pediatrian called it a "geographic" tongue. As long as your doctor has ruled out thrush, it is nothing to worry about.
Which diseases or disorders affect the tongue?
Thrush, Geographic tongue.Glossopathies are diseases of the tongue. There is a condition called a "geographic tongue," that affects the tongue's appearance but doesn't cause any other problems, including infection. There may be areas of red patches and may feel sore and irritated especially when eating certain foods. This usually goes away on its own over time. You can also try using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.i dont give a damThrush, Geographic tongue.Glossopathies are diseases of the tongue. There is a condition called a "geographic tongue," that affects the tongue's appearance but doesn't cause any other problems, including infection. There may be areas of red patches and may feel sore and irritated especially when eating certain foods. This usually goes away on its own over time. You can also try using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
What are different textures of tongue?
The tongue can have various textures including smooth, rough, bumpy, and furry. These textures can be influenced by factors such as dehydration, oral health, microbial imbalance, or medical conditions like geographic tongue or oral thrush. It's important to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any unusual textures on your tongue.
