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Geographic tongue is a tongue condition where patches resembling a map form on the tongue’s surface, which can cause discomfort. It is migratory and may be linked to allergies, chronic conditions, and stress. Treatment involves over-the-counter or prescription medications, and avoiding triggers. It usually disappears without extensive treatment.
Geographic tongue is a tongue condition that presents with transient discolored patches that resemble a map in appearance. The patches that form on the surface of the tongue, resulting from the shedding of the papillae, take on a characteristic appearance that allows for easy identification and diagnosis. Also known as benign migratory glossitis, geographic tongue may require the use of over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications to ease the discomfort.
Migratory in nature, the patches that form on the tongue often show up on one area of the surface of the tongue, heal, and then show up in another area. The regenerative nature of the papillae usually follows a one to two week cycle in which the papillae are sloughed off and replaced. Why papillae are shed from the surface of the tongue to begin with remains unknown. The loss of these finger-like bumps does not affect the functionality of the tongue; more specifically the affected individual does not lose his ability to taste.
Often, the affected areas of the tongue may look distinctive and change in appearance. The outer edges of reddish, bare patches may be defined by white or pink bumps that take on a border-like appearance outlining the affected area. The fluency of presentation associated with geographic language is common, often changing by the minute, hour, or day. The mercurial nature of the patches may also contribute to the varying intensity of discomfort that may develop.
It has been argued that individuals with allergies and certain chronic conditions, such as asthma and psoriasis, often exhibit heightened susceptibility to geographic tongue development. There have also been studies conducted that strongly suggest that benign migratory glossitis may be an inherited condition. Additional factors that may contribute to the development of this harmless condition include hormonal fluctuations and extreme stress. Smokers and those who regularly drink alcohol may also be at increased risk of developing geographic tongue.
Easily identifiable with a visual exam, geographic tongue usually doesn’t require any treatment. Some individuals may develop episodic tenderness and pain that coincide with the development of new patches that require the use of medications. Typically, symptomatic individuals are instructed to rinse with an anesthetic mouthwash and take an over-the-counter pain reliever medication to relieve discomfort. Rarely, extreme discomfort may require the administration of a prescribed strength pain reliever or pain medication. In most cases, geographic tongue disappears without continued extensive treatment.
Individuals diagnosed with geographic tongue are often encouraged to write down their condition, recording details, such as dates and durations of outbreaks, as well as potential triggers. Once people learn to recognize their triggers, they can take proactive steps to reduce flare-ups and better manage any discomfort they may be feeling. Avoiding known triggers, such as acidic drinks and spicy foods, and adapting your behaviors, including limiting your exposure to stressors, can help promote effective symptom management.
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