Why You Should Look at Your Tongue more often...

Your tongue probably doesn't draw much of your attention, particularly if you diligently monitor your body for changes in your health. While sitting in front of the mirror endlessly studying the organ that helps you taste and talk might not seem particularly scintillating, doing so is a great way to assess your overall health. Your tongue is a gateway to your digestive system, providing valuable clues about your health and dental hygiene. These five symptoms might seem innocuous, but they are among the many early ways you body signals a potential health issue.

---

​ A Furry or White Tongue
If your tongue is covered in furry goop or suddenly has a white hue, there's no need to panic. This symptom is a common side effect of some antibiotics and usually goes away on its own. However, it could signal that your body is experiencing a yeast overgrowth. Take a probiotic to avoid getting a yeast infection.
If you’re not taking an antibiotic, but you have a white tongue, most of the time, this is your body's way of telling you to embrace better oral hygiene. Plaque-causing bacteria can accumulate on your tongue, producing bad breath and contributing to tooth and gum decay. Brush your tongue every day, and see your dentist if the symptom persists for over a week or two.

Redness or Inflammation of the TongueRedness or inflammation anywhere in your body is always cause for concern, and the tongue is no exception. A bright red tongue can indicate a deficiency in iron, vitamin B12, or both. Red, inflamed patches on the tongue, swelling, or diffuse pain can signal a range of conditions, including:

• Canker sores: These localized oral infections usually clear up on their own, but occasionally they become severely infected.
• An oral infection: Sometimes bacteria from an infected tooth or inflamed gums spreads to the tongue.
• A cyst in or on the tongue: These cysts are rarely cancerous, but they can be quite painful.

WAS THIS ARTICLE HELPFUL? COMMENT BELOW LIKE AND SHARE