In addition to swelling, glossitis can alter the color and texture of the tongue by causing the diminishment of the small bumps on its surface, resulting in a shiny, red appearance.
Severe cases of glossitis can be painful and impact speech and eating habits.
There are several types of glossitis, including:
- Acute glossitis: Typically develops suddenly with severe symptoms.
- Chronic glossitis: Characterized by persistent inflammation often stemming from an underlying condition.
- Atrophic glossitis (Hunter’s glossitis): Involves shrinking of the tongue’s papillae, leading to a glossy surface.
- Median rhomboid glossitis: Often caused by a Candida yeast infection.
Symptoms of glossitis vary among individuals and depending on the underlying cause, but common ones include:
- Swollen tongue
- Tongue pain
- Burning or itching sensation
- Changes in tongue texture and color
- Difficulty speaking or eating
- Trouble swallowing
Various factors can lead to glossitis, such as:
- Allergic reactions: Acute glossitis may arise from an allergic response to food, medication, or irritants.
- Mouth injuries: Cuts from braces or burns from hot food can inflame and swell the tongue.
- Diseases: Conditions like celiac disease, malnutrition, pernicious anemia, and immune system disorders like Sjögren’s Syndrome can cause glossitis.
- Infections: Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, especially oral herpes and yeast infections, are common causes.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Glossitis may occur due to iron deficiencies, resulting in low levels of myoglobin, a crucial substance for muscle health, including the tongue.