Diagnosis
A thorough examination by the attending physician is of enormous importance, because only then an inflammation of the tongue can be treated quickly and effectively. At the beginning, the attending physician examines the tongue as well as the mucous membrane of the tongue, paying special attention to changes such as redness, swelling, coatings, etc. At the same time, general diseases as a cause of inflammation of the tongue should be safely excluded.
Blood tests are advisable in case of suspected allergic reactions and if a bacterial infection of the tongue is suspected. A vitamin deficiency or iron deficiency can also be detected by examining the blood. For a more precise diagnosis of a fungal infection, the doctor takes a smear of the mucous membrane of the tongue. This is then examined in a laboratory to determine the exact fungal pathogen. Since tongue inflammation can occur due to sharp-edged teeth, fillings or badly fitting dentures, it is recommended that the dental status be clarified by a dentist.
Treatment
The treatment of inflammation of the tongue depends on the cause. Infectious causes are treated either with an antibiotic, a drug against fungal infections (antifungal) or with a drug against viruses, depending on the form of the pathogen (bacteria, fungi or viruses). If the inflammation of the tongue occurs due to an allergic reaction, the triggering substances should be avoided.At the same time the physician can achieve a fast decay of the allergic reaction by prescribing cortisone preparations.
If the tongue is strongly swollen and reddened, sucking ice cubes or drinking cool, unsweetened drinks is recommended. If there is a vitamin deficiency in the blood, this can be compensated by a change in diet. In doing so, the regular supply of vitamins A, B and C through food should be ensured.
If necessary, vitamin substitutes in the form of effervescent tablets or capsules can be taken for a short time. If the blood test shows an iron deficiency, this can be compensated by regular consumption of red juices containing iron or by means of iron preparations from the pharmacy (Floradix). If inflammation of the tongue occurs as an accompanying symptom of general illnesses, these should be diagnosed and treated consistently.
After successful treatment of the general disease, the inflammation of the tongue usually subsides quickly at the same time. Mouthwashes or teas made from chamomile, sage or peppermint are suitable for relieving the symptoms. Taken regularly throughout the day, these remedies can lead to a rapid improvement in symptoms.
For people with a weakened immune system, immune-boosting remedies from naturopathy can be used. As a matter of principle, one should avoid strongly spiced food, hot drinks, alcohol and cigarettes during treatment, as they all cause additional chemical irritation of the tongue. Thorough oral hygiene must be observed.
