Tongue Problems

What is the tongue?

The tongue is a powerful muscle inside the mouth that helps us talk, eat, and taste food. In Africa, where we enjoy a variety of local dishes—from spicy jollof rice in West Africa to injera in East Africa—the tongue plays a big role in our daily lives. However, many people don’t pay attention to their tongue until they experience pain, swelling, or discoloration.

Tongue problems are common, and while some are harmless, others can be signs of serious health conditions. This guide will help you understand different tongue issues, their causes, and what to do about them.

How common are tongue problems in Africa?

Many Africans suffer from tongue issues, often without realizing the cause. Common problems include infections, nutritional deficiencies, and reactions to certain foods or medicines.

  • Oral infections (such as candidiasis or oral thrush) are widespread due to poor dental hygiene and lack of access to clean water.
  • Vitamin deficiencies, especially a lack of iron, folic acid, or vitamin B12, can cause a painful, swollen, or discolored tongue. This is more common in areas with limited access to diverse foods.
  • Traditional practices, such as chewing tobacco or betel nuts, can cause tongue problems, including cancer.

By learning about these issues, we can take better care of our oral health.

Symptoms of tongue problems?

If you notice any of the following symptoms, it could indicate a tongue problem:

  • Loss of taste or a change in taste
  • Difficulty moving the tongue
  • Swelling or unusual size
  • Pain or burning sensation
  • A change in color (white, bright pink, black, or brown patches)
  • A furry or hairy texture
  • Red or white sores

Common tongue problems and their causes?

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS)

  • This condition causes a burning sensation on the tongue and may affect taste.
  • It is common in postmenopausal women and can also be caused by smoking.

Enlarged tongue (macroglossia)

  • Some people are born with a larger-than-normal tongue, while others develop it later in life due to conditions such as Down syndrome or thyroid disorders.
  • If the tongue suddenly swells, it could be due to an allergic reaction, which requires emergency medical attention.

Smooth or shiny tongue (atrophic glossitis)

  • This happens when the tongue loses its rough texture due to a lack of vitamins or an infection.
  • Causes include deficiencies in iron, zinc, or vitamin B12, as well as helicobacter pylori (a bacteria linked to stomach ulcers). Oral herpes (cold sores)
  • Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), it leads to painful sores on the tongue, lips, and inside the mouth.
  • It spreads through kissing, sharing utensils, or close contact with an infected person.

White patches on the tongue

  • Oral thrush (caused by a yeast infection) is common in people with weak immune systems.
  • Leukoplakia (thick white patches) can sometimes develop into oral cancer. Black hairy tongue
  • This harmless condition happens when the tiny bumps on the tongue grow too long and trap food, bacteria, and yeast.
  • It can be caused by smoking, excessive coffee or tea drinking, or poor oral hygiene.

How to diagnose tongue problems?

You should see a doctor or dentist if:

  • A sore or pain lasts more than two weeks.
  • Your tongue is swollen and makes it hard to breathe.
  • You have difficulty eating or drinking due to pain.
  • You notice an unusual lump or color change that does not go away.

Doctors may examine your tongue and, in some cases, perform tests such as:

  • Blood tests to check for infections or vitamin deficiencies.
  • Biopsy (taking a small tissue sample) if they suspect cancer.
  • Endoscopy (using a small camera) to check the throat and tongue base.

Home care for a healthy tongue?

You can prevent and relieve some tongue problems by following these simple steps:

  • Brush and floss daily to keep your mouth clean.
  • Drink plenty of water to avoid dry mouth and infections.
  • Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.
  • Avoid smoking, alcohol, and chewing betel nuts, which can cause cancer.
  • Use warm saltwater rinses for mouth sores and infections.
  • Avoid spicy and hot foods if your tongue is inflamed.

Chew food properly to prevent accidental tongue bites.