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Suggest Treatment For Black Discoloration On The Tongue And Excessive Weight Loss

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Posted on Tue, 13 Dec 2016
Question: my tongue has felt funny for a month. I have lost 25lbst by dieting, the tongue feels fussy and seems darker
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Answered by Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh (59 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Information

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,

While I can't know with absolute certainty without seeing what you are describing, your description sounds like it might be "black hairy tongue". It sounds frightening, but it is quite innocuous. The papillae (tiny bumps) of the tongue elongate and can be colonized with bacteria which gives it a brown or black discoloration. It happens more in smokers, people with dry mouths, after antibiotic use, use of certain medications, and if oral hygiene isn't adequate. Certain mouthwashes can cause it too.

Usually there isn't anything that needs to be done except for getting rid of the cause if it can be identified (such as stop smoking, increase teeth and gentle tongue brushing, etc). If there is any chance that you are short of B-vitamins, take a B-complex vitamin.

If it continues to bother you, then do go in to your doctor to be seen in person as it can be diagnosed by up close examination of the tongue.

I hope this information helps
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. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 3133 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Black Discoloration On The Tongue And Excessive Weight Loss

Brief Answer: Information Detailed Answer: Hello and welcome, While I can't know with absolute certainty without seeing what you are describing, your description sounds like it might be "black hairy tongue". It sounds frightening, but it is quite innocuous. The papillae (tiny bumps) of the tongue elongate and can be colonized with bacteria which gives it a brown or black discoloration. It happens more in smokers, people with dry mouths, after antibiotic use, use of certain medications, and if oral hygiene isn't adequate. Certain mouthwashes can cause it too. Usually there isn't anything that needs to be done except for getting rid of the cause if it can be identified (such as stop smoking, increase teeth and gentle tongue brushing, etc). If there is any chance that you are short of B-vitamins, take a B-complex vitamin. If it continues to bother you, then do go in to your doctor to be seen in person as it can be diagnosed by up close examination of the tongue. I hope this information helps