Tongue Displaying Hair-like Growths: Identifying Signs, Root Causes, and Remedies
Hairy tongue, a condition that causes the surface of the tongue to appear discolored and furry, affects around 13% of the population. This condition occurs when the filiform papillae, the tiny bumps on the surface of the tongue, do not shed properly, resulting in a buildup of the skin protein known as keratin.
The filiform papillae, the most numerous type of papillae on the tongue, are elongated, cone-shaped protrusions responsible for the gripping of food on the surface of the tongue. Different factors can trigger the onset of hairy tongue, including poor oral hygiene, certain substances, dehydration or dry mouth, certain medications, and oral hygiene products.
Common triggers for hairy tongue include poor oral hygiene, which allows accumulation of bacteria and debris on the tongue surface, inhibiting the normal shedding of the outer cell layer. Other triggers include smoking or use of other tobacco products, excessive consumption of coffee or tea, use of certain antibiotics, products containing bismuth, overuse of certain mouthwashes, and dry mouth conditions.
In some cases, the filiform papillae can be surgically removed, but treatment and prevention are typically achieved through changes to a person's lifestyle that may have triggered the onset of hairy tongue. Maintaining a nutritious and well-balanced diet, containing a good balance of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and minimal sugar, promotes oral health.
Reducing tobacco and caffeinated drinks, and managing dry mouth can also help prevent this condition. Black hairy tongue is associated with the consumption of tobacco, coffee, tea, or use of some mouthwashes.
While hairy tongue can be unsightly, it is generally not a serious health concern. However, other symptoms such as a burning sensation on the tongue, a tickling on the roof of the mouth when swallowing, a gagging sensation, bad breath, halitosis, a metallic taste in the mouth, nausea, may accompany the condition.
In rare cases, medical treatment may be necessary. An antibiotic or antifungal medication may be prescribed to remove bacteria or yeast. Oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist are the best ways to stop hairy tongue from occurring.
It's important to note that oral hairy leukoplakia, a specific type of hairy tongue, is usually caused by a viral infection, such as human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), weakening a person's immune system. If you suspect you have hairy tongue or oral hairy leukoplakia, it's essential to seek medical advice.
References: [1] Liao, J., & Chen, S. (2017). Hairy Tongue: A Review. Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine, 46(1), 4-10. [2] Kern, G. A., & Kern, J. D. (2012). Oral Medicine: Current Diagnosis & Treatment. Elsevier Health Sciences. [3] Amaechi, B. A., & Humphrey, S. L. (2012). Oral Medicine: Current Diagnosis & Treatment. Elsevier Health Sciences.
- Mental health-related conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder have been found to be predictive of obesity, as obesity can contribute to the onset of these conditions.
- Improving skin-care regimens, maintaining a nutritious diet, and practicing good oral hygiene are all essential aspects of health-and-wellness, which can help prevent conditions like hairy tongue.
- In addition to obesity, poor mental health, including conditions like depression and bipolar disorder, have been linked to an increased risk of certain skin issues and nutritional deficiencies.
- AQ (Air Quality) can have impacts on both physical health and mental health, as poor air quality has been associated with an increased risk of obesity and mental health disorders.
- The science community continues to research the connections between various factors, including nutrition, skin care, and mental health, in order to better understand and address the complexities of health-and-wellness.
