You may be experiencing a more serious condition that is not geographic tongue. If you notice the telltale signs of the condition or begin developing irritation or pain, make an appointment to see your doctor.
Most cases of geographic tongue will go away without treatment in a few days. Symptoms may appear for a few days and then disappear for several months.
Likewise, the map-like appearance may be present for several months and then disappear for years. A geographic tongue is not a sign of a more serious condition, so you do not have to worry about it developing into something else. Geographic tongue is very distinct, so your doctor may only need to see your tongue to make a diagnosis. Still, your doctor may decide to rule out other possible conditions to make sure the lesions are not the result of another disease or problem.
To do this, your doctor may use blood tests to look for markers of inflammation, infection, or nutritional deficiencies. They may also use a lighted instrument to inspect the mouth, throat, and tongue for signs of other conditions. Rarely, a biopsy of skin may be necessary if the condition does not resolve in a few weeks. Geographic tongue does not have a treatment or cure. Most lesions and symptoms will disappear in a few days or weeks. Still, some treatments may help reduce symptoms:.
A healthy tongue will have a bright pink color and a smooth texture. A green tongue can be a sign of several serious medical conditions. A healthy tongue is usually pink in appearance, with small, painless nodules. If your tongue is red, yellow, or white, you likely need to address a…. Fissured tongue is a benign condition that affects the surface of the tongue. Learn about causes and related conditions.
Also see pictures. Geographic tongue is an often painless condition where spots or patches appear on the top and sides of the tongue. The irregular patches make the tongue resemble a map, which is where the condition gets its name.
Geographic tongue may go undetected for months or years. Often a dentist or doctor discovers the condition during a routine oral examination. The condition causes smooth, red, and irregular patches on the top and sides of the tongue. Additional distinguishing features include:. Additional symptoms may include some mild discomfort or pain. This often happens during contact with foods or other substances. Some potential triggers include:. Despite its appearance, geographic tongue is a benign condition.
There are no illnesses or cancers associated with it. Though some people may experience discomfort, pain, or burning these sensations are almost exclusively the result of contacting spicy or acidic foods. In some cases, geographic tongue may look more like a painful ulcer. Despite the appearance, these cases of geographic tongue may not even cause discomfort. In other cases, geographic tongue may exist along with a condition called fissured tongue, which is often easier to see.
Below are some examples of geographic tongue and how it may look. Please be aware that some of the images may be quite graphic:. There is currently no known cause of geographic tongue.
However, lesions on the tongue may indicate other more-serious conditions of the tongue or diseases affecting the body in general. If you have lesions on the tongue that don't resolve within 10 days, see your doctor or dentist. The cause of geographic tongue is unknown, and there's no way to prevent the condition. There may be a link between geographic tongue and psoriasis and between geographic tongue and lichen planus.
But more research is needed to better understand possible connections. Studies of factors that may be associated with an increased risk of geographic tongue have produced mixed results. Factors that are likely associated with an increased risk include:. Geographic tongue is a benign condition.
It doesn't pose a threat to your health, cause long-term complications or increase your risk of major health problems. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. Geographic tongue can occur suddenly and persist for months or longer, and may often recur. Most often there are no symptoms but burning or irritation of the tongue are common, particularly when eating hot, spicy and acidic food.
The diagnosis of geographic tongue is based on clinical examination of the tongue and the patient history. Routine laboratory tests are usually normal. There is no cure for geographic tongue. Usually, no treatment is required apart from reassurance. Discomfort and burning sensations can be treated by avoiding eating hot, spicy and acidic food. Symptomatic treatments may include:.
The outcome of geographic tongue is good. In most cases, it resolves over time without treatment. See smartphone apps to check your skin. Books about skin diseases Books about the skin Dermatology Made Easy book. DermNet NZ does not provide an online consultation service.
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