(getty images)
Have you ever felt your tongue have a burning sensation when you are eating pineapple? This happens because pineapples contain an enzyme that digests protein, a major component of our tongue. However, do you know people may also experience this unpleasant burning sensation even when they are consuming regular food?
Spicy food burns your tongue because capsaicin, the main component of chill pepper, binds to the pain receptors on the tongue and tricks you into the sense of “spiciness”[1]. However, for those suffering from glossitis, even savory foods can cause discomfort. Glossitis is an oral manifestation indicating the inflammation of the tongue. Glossitis is common and usually does not require specific treatment. Depending on the types of glossitis, the appearance of the tongue may seem alarming, but they are usually non-contagious [2]. Healthy individuals have a number of pinkish bump-like structures, papillae, lying over the top of the tongue. They allow us to taste, and are sensitive to temperature, pressure, and chemicals[1] thanks to the number of receptors inside. Patients with glossitis can become sensitive to spice and salty food[2].
Three Common Types of Glossitis
Atrophic Glossitis: Partial or complete missing of filiform papillae on the surface of the tongue[3]. Geographic Tongue: Map-like patches surrounded by a white border. Folded Glossitis: Characterized by cracks or folds in the tongue. Causes Researchers analyze the serum and saliva content of patients to determine the underlying causes of glossitis[4]. It is found that patients with atrophic glossitis have a higher frequency of iron and vitamin B12 deficiency. Some studies suggest glossitis with linear lesion as an early indication of the deficiency of vitamin B12[3]. However, patients who get Scarlet fever may also have the symptom of a red bumpy tongue that resembles glossitis. One way to differentiate between the two is by the prominence of the papillae; glossitis is not characterized by such bumps[5].
In conclusion, understanding the various types and causes of glossitis is crucial for both diagnosis and management. While some forms are linked to deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12, others may be symptomatic of different health conditions. It's important to observe any changes in the tongue's appearance or sensation, as these can be key indicators of our overall health. Regular monitoring and consultation with healthcare professionals can help in effectively identifying and addressing any underlying health issues reflected by the state of our tongue. Reference:
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20150120-hidden-ways-your-tongue-tastes
Prasanth, Venkata Joga, and Anup Singh. “Geographic Tongue.” Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ), vol. 193, no. 36, 2021, pp. E1424–E1424, https://doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.202855.
Graells, Jordi, et al. “Glossitis with Linear Lesions: An Early Sign of Vitamin B12 Deficiency.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, vol. 60, no. 3, 2009, pp. 498–500, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2008.09.011.
Khayamzadeh, Mina, et al. “Determining Salivary and Serum Levels of Iron, Zinc and Vitamin B12 in Patients with Geographic Tongue.” Journal of Dental Research, Dental Clinics, Dental Prospects, vol. 13, no. 3, 2019, pp. 221–26, https://doi.org/10.15171/joddd.2019.034.
Chiang, Chun-Pin et al. “Atrophic glossitis: Etiology, serum autoantibodies, anemia, hematinic deficiencies, hyperhomocysteinemia, and management.” Journal of the Formosan Medical Association = Taiwan yi zhi vol. 119,4 (2020): 774-780. doi:10.1016/j.jfma.2019.04.015
Cover image: https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/photo/tongue-royalty-free-image/724233583?adppopup=true Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
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