Content
The geographical language, also known as benign migratory glossitis or migratory erythema, is an alteration that causes the appearance of red, smooth and irregular spots on the tongue, forming an image that looks like a geographical map. This situation is rare and has no well-defined cause, however it is more frequent among people in the same family, which indicates that there may be some genetic factor associated with its appearance.
In most cases, the geographical language does not lead to the appearance of symptoms, and treatment is not necessary. However, in some cases it can cause pain, burning and discomfort after consuming hot acidic or salty foods, and it is recommended that the person avoid consuming these foods.
Possible causes of geographic language
The geographical tongue appears when the taste buds of some areas of the tongue start to disappear, forming small red and irregular spots, similar to a map. However, the specific causes that lead to the disappearance of the papillae are not yet known. However, it is believed that it may be related to some situations, such as:
- Psoriasis;
- Atopic dermatitis;
- Fissured tongue;
- Hormonal changes;
- Genetic changes;
- Allergy;
- Geographic language case in the family;
- Nutritional deficiencies.
The geographical tongue does not normally lead to the appearance of other signs and symptoms besides the stains on the tongue, however some people may experience burning, pain or increased sensitivity of the tongue when consuming very hot, spicy or acidic foods.
How is the treatment
As the geographic language does not lead in most cases to the appearance of signs or symptoms and as it does not change the taste of food, although some taste buds disappear, treatment is not necessary. However, when there is burning or discomfort during the consumption of some food, the dentist may indicate the use of some medicines or rinses, such as:
- Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen, which help to relieve pain during crises that can arise after eating more spicy foods;
- Mouthwash or anesthetic ointments, such as Lidocaine, which quickly relieves pain and burning on the tongue;
- Corticosteroid medications, such as Prednisolone, which helps to relieve inflammation and pain on the tongue, especially when pain killers do not work.
To avoid the appearance of uncomfortable symptoms and the use of medicines, it is recommended that the person who has the geographical tongue avoid foods that can damage the tissue of the tongue, that is, very hot, spicy, very spicy or salty foods, for example. In addition, you should also avoid smoking and do not use toothpaste that contains chemicals, such as whitening substances or very intense flavors.