The tongue is not just an organ that a person uses to taste or speak, but it is also a powerful tool for detecting many health conditions that may pass without a person noticing. The tongue can reveal the general condition of your body through its appearance and color, and any changes that may occur to it may indicate a health problem that requires special attention. In this article, we will learn how to use the tongue as an indicator of the body’s health, in addition to what the changes that occur to it can mean.
1.Healthy tongue
A healthy tongue is usually light pink in color and smooth in texture. Its surface contains a number of small protrusions called papillae, and these papillae cover the entire surface of the tongue. When the tongue is clean and free of any abnormal changes, it indicates that the body is in good health.
2.Changes in the color of the tongue:
A change in the color of the tongue can be one of the first signs that highlight certain health problems. Here are some of the colors your tongue may appear in, and what they indicate:
Dark red tongue
If you notice that your tongue is turning a dark or shiny red, it could be a sign of a digestive problem, such as gastritis or food poisoning. Dark red could also indicate a vitamin deficiency, such as vitamin B12 or folic acid.
Blue or purple tongue
A tongue that appears blue or purple could be a sign of a problem with your circulation or a lack of oxygen in your blood. This could be a sign of disorders such as heart failure or breathing problems. If these changes occur, you should see a doctor immediately.
Yellow tongue
When your tongue appears yellow, it could be a sign of a problem with your liver or gallbladder. Yellow can also be associated with digestive problems or a bacterial infection, such as gastritis.
White tongue
A white tongue is one of the most common changes, and can be the result of dehydration or oral infections. If there is a white film on your tongue that can’t be easily wiped away, it could be a sign of a fungal infection such as oral thrush or other infections in your mouth or throat.
Brown or black tongue
A brown or black tongue may be caused by a buildup of bacteria or dead cells on the surface of the tongue. This may be due to poor oral hygiene, or it may be the result of the use of certain medications such as antibiotics or chemotherapy.
3.Tongue shape:
In addition to color, the shape of the tongue can provide important information about your overall health. Here are some changes in the shape of the tongue that may indicate health problems:
Cracked tongue
A cracked tongue, which shows small cracks or grooves, may be a sign of a vitamin deficiency, such as vitamin B or zinc. In some cases, it may be linked to hormonal fluctuations or digestive problems.
Swollen or puffy tongue
A tongue that appears swollen or swollen may be a sign of inflammation or sensitivity in the mouth or throat. This swelling may be associated with conditions such as tonsillitis or allergic reactions. In some cases, swelling may be caused by a vitamin deficiency or thyroid disorder.
Flat or shiny tongue
A flat, shiny tongue, which appears suddenly with the loss of papillae, can be a sign of a severe vitamin deficiency, especially iron or vitamin B12. This appearance may also be associated with autoimmune diseases such as celiac disease or glossitis.
4.Texture and coating on the tongue
The texture and coating that covers the surface of the tongue can give additional clues about your health. Usually, when the coating is thin and transparent, the tongue is healthy. But changes may indicate certain problems:
Thick white coating
If there is a thick layer of white on the tongue, it may be a sign of a fungal or bacterial infection in the mouth, such as oral thrush. This may occur more commonly in people with a weakened immune system or diabetes.
Yellow coating
A yellow coating on the tongue may indicate problems with the liver or digestive system. In some cases, this coating may be the result of a buildup of waste or toxins that have not been properly eliminated from the body.
The tongue is a mirror of the body’s health, as it can reveal many health problems that may not be obvious at first. The tongue is an indicator of your overall health, and signs to watch for.
