Tongue disease can be caused by various things, ranging from not keeping the tongue clean to a weak immune system. Get to know what kinds of tongue diseases are so that you can take appropriate prevention and treatment steps.
The tongue is an organ with muscle tissue that allows humans to taste, swallow, and speak. The tongue is covered by a pink membrane (mucosa) and small bumps (papillary) that give it a rough texture as a gathering place for thousands of taste buds for various tastes.
Negligence in maintaining tongue hygiene, excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, and smoking habits can trigger problems with the tongue so that it interferes with the function of the tongue.
Various Types of Tongue Disease
The following are some conditions that can occur on the tongue along with the treatment steps that can be taken.
1. Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia are white patches that can appear on the surface of the tongue, gums, or the inner walls of the cheeks. This tongue disease is associated with smoking or chewing tobacco and excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages.
In general, leukoplakia will heal on its own without any treatment. However, if the white patches persist for more than 2 weeks, you should consult a doctor. This is because some cases of leukoplakia are at risk of developing tongue cancer.
2. Candidiasis
Candidiasis occurs when the fungus Candida albicans develops in the lining of the tongue. This tongue disease is usually more at risk in people with weak immune systems or undergoing treatment with corticosteroids.
Candidiasis is also more at risk for the elderly, young children, and infants. The doctor will provide treatment in the form of giving antifungal drugs to treat candidiasis.
3. Oral cancer
You need to be careful if there is a lump that continues to grow or enlarge in the tongue area, because this can be a sign of oral cancer.
This tongue disease is more at risk for active smokers and people who consume alcoholic beverages in excess. In the early stages, the lump that appears is usually painless, but you are advised not to ignore this condition.
4. Sore tongue syndrome
Tongue feeling like scalded by hot water is a fairly common problem. This condition can also be experienced by some women who have experienced menopause. Stinging tongue syndrome is generally harmless and is usually caused only by a mild nerve problem.
5. Black and hairy tongue
The tongue can experience a buildup of bacteria on the papillae. This bacteria is what makes the tongue look hairy and black. In general, this condition is not classified as serious. However, you are advised to take better care of your oral hygiene and take care of your tongue.
People who are undergoing chemotherapy or often take antibiotics, are more at risk of developing this kind of condition.
6. Atrophic glossitis
Atrophic glossitis or inflammation of the tongue is characterized by a swollen and reddish tongue and the tongue's texture becomes slippery and smooth. This tongue disease can occur due to a lack of vitamin B12, folic acid, or iron.
Symptoms of atrophic glossitis can be treated and prevented by maintaining dental and oral hygiene, meeting the needs of vitamins and minerals, and taking adequate antibiotics.
Most tongue diseases are generally not serious and can be treated quickly. However, it never hurts to consult a doctor if there are problems with your tongue or mouth.
Don't forget to keep your tongue clean by regularly brushing your teeth and brushing your tongue gently, quitting smoking, and limiting the consumption of alcoholic beverages to avoid tongue disease.