My tongue is rough
‘GEOGRAPHICAL’ is the term that refers to a tongue with map-like patches. The shape of the patches may change quickly.
Dear Doctor,
I have a tongue which peels. It looks like a field ploughed by a tractor and sometimes it pains. I have sought help from many doctors, but they tell me it is a ‘geographic’ tongue. They say it is normal and nothing can be done to smoothen it, but I am uncomfortable. What can I do?
Anthony
Dear Anthony,
‘GEOGRAPHICAL’ is the term that refers to a tongue with map-like patches. The shape of the patches may change quickly.
It is usually painless, although sometimes one may get sores. It is believed that the roughness is caused by irritation to the tongue. This can be caused by food, spices or alcohol. It may also be a sign of vitamin deficiency.
However, the geographic tongue is harmless. Do not worry about it. However, you should avoid food that irritates your tongue.
Also, eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Dr. Paul Semugoma, semugoma@hotmail.com
Write to Ask The Doctor, Box 9815, Kampala or health@newvision.co.ug
I have a tongue which peels. It looks like a field ploughed by a tractor and sometimes it pains. I have sought help from many doctors, but they tell me it is a ‘geographic’ tongue. They say it is normal and nothing can be done to smoothen it, but I am uncomfortable. What can I do?
Anthony
Dear Anthony,
‘GEOGRAPHICAL’ is the term that refers to a tongue with map-like patches. The shape of the patches may change quickly.
It is usually painless, although sometimes one may get sores. It is believed that the roughness is caused by irritation to the tongue. This can be caused by food, spices or alcohol. It may also be a sign of vitamin deficiency.
However, the geographic tongue is harmless. Do not worry about it. However, you should avoid food that irritates your tongue.
Also, eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Dr. Paul Semugoma, semugoma@hotmail.com
Write to Ask The Doctor, Box 9815, Kampala or health@newvision.co.ug