How Should I Get Treatment For Geographic Tongue?

Posted on Fri, 7 Jul 2023

Question: I have been diagnosed with geographic tongue. My tongue gets very sore with red patches that are very sensitive and make it difficult to talk at times. At times it is even raw. I also get bumps around the tip and sides of my tongue I have been 3 times to my PCP and to 2 different ENT doctors and got no answer for relief. It does not seem to me that any specific food sets this off and it is pretty much continuous throughout the day. The only thing that makes it manageable is chewing gum. I have been prescribed a prescription lozenge and a liquid called nystatin. Neither of these medicines helped.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It is geographic stomatitis. A short course of oral steroids is required.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

I have examined the images thoroughly and I am of the opinion that its geographic stomatitis, also known as mucosal inflammation of the tongue. This is due to stress, vitamin deficiency, and hormonal imbalance.

My suggestions to you are:
1. Drink frequent sips of lukewarm water
2. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables (particularly the sprouted seeds); this helps in repairing of the oral mucosa.
3. A short course of oral steroids or oral applications made of corticosteroid is highly recommended for reducing the inflammation of the mucosa.
5. Avoid chilled food and beverages, coffee, spicy & oily food, smoking / alcohol (if any).
6. Avoid Nystatin and sugar-coated lozenges.

Hope I have answered your query, I will be available for the follow-up queries.

Regards,
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Thank you for your answer I have found years ago I am allergic to prednosne is there something else I can take and what specific spouted vegetable should I eat. I would really like to solve this issue it is very bothersome. Is chewing gum ok thank you

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (13 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
I would not advise chewing gum.

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

1. You can try taking preparations made of any of the following steroids, hydrocortisone/ dexamethasone/ triamcinolone acetonide.

2. Sprouted seeds of the following combinations green gram, chickpeas, and peanuts are the best.

3. Riped Papaya is one of the best fruits for rejuvenation of the oral cavity mucosa.

4. I would not recommend chewing gum, as it dries up the mucosa and worsens your problem.

Hope this clarifies your doubts. Wish you good health.

Regards,
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad