Geographic Tongue Overview
Learn About Geographic Tongue
Geographic tongue is characterized by irregular patches on the surface of the tongue. This gives it a map-like appearance.
Patches on the tongue; Tongue - patchy; Benign migratory glossitis; Glossitis - benign migratory
The exact cause of geographic tongue is unknown. It may be due to irritation from hot or spicy foods, or alcohol. The condition appears to be less common in smokers.
The change in pattern on the surface of the tongue occurs when there is a loss of the tiny, finger-like projections, called papillae, on the tongue. These areas look flat as a result. The appearance of the tongue may change very quickly. The flat-looking areas may remain for more than a month.
Symptoms include:
- Map-like appearance to the surface of the tongue
- Patches that move from day to day
- Smooth, red patches and sores (lesions) on the tongue
- Soreness and burning pain (in some cases)
No treatment is needed. Antihistamine gel or steroid- or tacrolimus-containing mouth rinses may help ease discomfort.
Gibson Community Hospital Association
Jonathan Glickstein is an Otolaryngologist in Gibson City, Illinois. Dr. Glickstein and is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Geographic Tongue. His top areas of expertise are Otitis, Trachoma, Laryngitis, and Cholesteatoma. Dr. Glickstein is currently accepting new patients.
Mason Hospital District
Gary Shaw is an Otolaryngologist and a Plastic Surgeon in Havana, Illinois. Dr. Shaw and is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Geographic Tongue. His top areas of expertise are Vocal Cord Dysfunction, Spasmodic Dysphonia, Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, and Laryngeal Nerve Damage. Dr. Shaw is currently accepting new patients.
Steven Sobol is a Plastic Surgeon and an Otolaryngologist in Decatur, Illinois. Dr. Sobol and is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Geographic Tongue. His top areas of expertise are Laryngeal Cancer, Thyroid Nodule, Throat Cancer, Thyroidectomy, and Gastrostomy.
Geographic tongue is a harmless condition. It may be uncomfortable and last for a long time.
Contact your provider if the symptoms last longer than 10 days. Seek medical help right away if:
- You have breathing problems.
- Your tongue is severely swollen.
- You have problems speaking, chewing, or swallowing.
Avoid irritating your tongue with hot or spicy food or alcohol if you are prone to this condition.
Published Date: March 01, 2023
Published By: Josef Shargorodsky, MD, MPH, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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