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Tongue

Tongue inflammation; Tongue infection

• 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

An examination by a dentist or health care provider shows a swollen tongue (or patches of swelling). The nodules on the surface of the tongue (papillae) may be absent. Detailed questions may be asked to determine the possible source of tongue inflammation, if injury or other local cause is not readily apparent. Blood tests may confirm systemic causes of the disorder.

Review Date: 01/30/2007
Reviewed By: Ravindra Uppaluri, MD. Otolaryngologist, Private Practice, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.