Glossitis
Alternate Names : Tongue inflammation, Tongue infection, Smooth tongue, Glossodynia, Burning tongue syndrome
Symptoms & Signs
- Tongue swelling
- Smooth appearance to the tongue
- Tongue color usually dark "beefy" red
- Pale, if caused by pernicious anemia
- Fiery red, if caused by deficiency of B vitamins
- Sore and tender tongue
- Difficulty with chewing, swallowing, or speaking
Diagnosis & Tests
An examination by a dentist or health care provider shows a swollen tongue (or patches of swelling).
Finger-like projections on the surface of the tongue (called papillae) may be absent. Your health care provider may ask detailed questions about your medical history and lifestyle to determine the possible source of tongue inflammation, if injury or other cause is not easily identified. Blood tests may be done to rule out other medical conditions.
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