The human body is a unit in which each organ and system depends on the functions of the others. Therefore, if there is a problem somewhere in the body, it can manifest itself by changing the color, structure and appearance of another organ.
In this case, we will talk about the tongue.
Your tongue can surprisingly reveal a health problem that you are not even aware of.
But in order to realize that something is wrong, you first need to know what a healthy tongue is supposed to look like.
The tongue of a healthy person is pale pink in color with a smooth fold running along the tongue. The tongue is soft and does not give unpleasant sensations when moving. The lingual papillae are clearly visible and are not flattened.
Depending on the time of year on a healthy tongue may be a small white plaque, in summer the plaque is a little thicker, and through it still visible papillae of the mucous membrane. In winter, the plaque can acquire a yellowish tint, and in the fall it becomes lighter and drier.
Thickening of the plaque, in which it is already difficult to distinguish the back of the tongue, is a signal for action and may indicate some diseases, including even chronic ones.
Here are 5 serious health problems your tongue is trying to tell you about:
1. Gastrointestinal disorders
Gastrointestinal problems are indicated by thick white plaque, which also indicates constipation. A thin plaque in the middle of the tongue indicates gastritis, and if the plaque is thick, there are probably complications of gastritis or gastritis has become chronic. If the plaque is located at the root of the tongue, then you should think about inflammation of the intestines. The presence of gray plaque indicates imperceptible chronic diseases of the intestines and stomach, such as hyperacidity. Yellow and black plaque on the tongue indicates problems with the gallbladder, spleen and liver if it does not go away within a week. If the plaque remains a temporary phenomenon, it indicates a violation of the microbial balance of the oral cavity.
2. Cardiac issues
Persistent redness near the tip of the tongue can indicate heart problems. Palpitations, chronic insomnia, and anxiety are some of the possible causes of such a spot on the tongue. Controlling your heart rate and blood pressure can help even out the color of your tongue.
3. Liver problems
The appearance of teeth marks on the sides of the tongue is interpreted as a sign of poor nutrient absorption and may indicate liver problems such as liver enlargement or hepatitis. Bluish-greenish spots on the sides of the tongue can also indicate liver disease such as cirrhosis.
4. Diabetes
Diabetes can have many symptoms, and the oral cavity is not without them. The presence of red or white spots on the tongue can indicate diabetes mellitus, which is caused by an increase in blood sugar levels.
Diabetes can also cause pain in the tongue when chewing food. And increased tooth sensitivity can be one of the symptoms of this condition, which is accompanied by acute thirst. If these symptoms are present, it is important to see a doctor for evaluation.
5. Respiratory conditions
Red spots on the area of the tongue just behind the tip of the tongue can indicate lung problems such as pneumonia and asthma. A foamy spot on the front of the tongue can be a sign of chest and lung congestion and can also indicate bronchitis and respiratory allergies.
6. Menopause
Did you know that women during menopause can experience a burning sensation on the tongue? The burning sensation can occur in several places in the mouth, but most commonly occurs at the tip of the tongue.
7. Vitamin deficiencies
When there is an imbalance in the body, the signs can be read on the tongue as well. So, if you notice color changes at the level of this organ, it may be a matter of vitamin and mineral deficiency.
If when you look in the mirror you find that the tongue looks too smooth and the taste papillae seem to have disappeared, it can also be a sign of a lack of nutrients in the body. A smooth, glossy tongue can be caused by a deficiency of iron, folic acid and B vitamins.
A smooth, thickened and reddened tongue can be a sign of vitamin B12 deficiency, a deficiency of which increases the risk of pernicious anemia.
Take a closer look at your tongue, you may be able to immediately detect any deviations from a healthy appearance. But do not panic if you suddenly find any changes, just keep a close eye on your health and consult a doctor.