Inflamed tongue (glossitis)

Overview

The tiny bumps on the tongue can disappear, making it look glossy.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Sore, smooth, red tongue
• Smooth, red, sore, or swollen tongue

Less common

• Burning
• Trouble chewing or tasting

When to get medical care

Causes

Low vitamins, infection, allergy.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Poor diet
• Alcohol

Possible complications

• Vitamin B12 deficiency

Diagnosis

Blood tests check vitamins.

Questions you may be asked

• Diet, alcohol, new products

The exam

Mouth exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood count, iron, B12, folate:

Treatment

Care for your mouth.

Self-care

• Avoid spicy, hot, and acidic foods
• Brush gently
• Stop any new toothpaste or mouthwash

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

• Balanced diet

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dentist or an ENT doctor (ear, nose, and throat doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Treatable.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Inflamed tongue (glossitis)