‘COVID Tongue’ Is Definitely a Thing—Here’s What It Is and How to Know if You Have It As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, new and unexpected symptoms are emerging. One lesser-known but increasingly common symptom is known as ‘COVID tongue’. What is COVID Tongue? COVID tongue is a temporary condition characterized by changes in the appearance and health of the tongue. It typically manifests as: * Swelling: The tongue becomes enlarged and puffy. * Geographic tongue: Red, inflamed patches appear on the tongue, resembling a map. * Bald tongue: The tongue loses its papillae (small bumps on the surface) and becomes smooth and glossy. * Burning or tingling sensation: The tongue may feel sore, dry, or uncomfortable. How to Know if You Have COVID Tongue COVID tongue is not a definitive symptom of COVID-19, and it can also be caused by other factors such as dehydration, vitamin deficiencies, and allergies. However, if you develop symptoms of COVID tongue and have been diagnosed with or are experiencing other symptoms of COVID-19, it may be an indication that you have the virus. Causes and Treatment The exact cause of COVID tongue is unknown, but it is believed to be related to the immune system’s response to the virus. The changes in the tongue’s appearance and health are thought to be caused by inflammation. Treatment for COVID tongue typically focuses on managing symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce discomfort. Rinsing with a mild salt water solution can soothe inflammation. Other Tongue Conditions Related to COVID-19 In addition to COVID tongue, other tongue conditions have been associated with COVID-19, including: * Thrush: A fungal infection that causes white or yellow patches on the tongue. * Canker sores: Small, painful ulcers that can appear on the tongue. * Swollen tongue: The tongue may become enlarged and inflamed, but without other signs of COVID tongue. If You Think You Have COVID Tongue If you develop symptoms of COVID tongue, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can rule out other potential causes and provide appropriate treatment. While COVID tongue can be an uncomfortable and distressing symptom, it is generally not a serious condition and will resolve on its own within a few days or weeks.COVID Tongue: What Doctors Want You to KnowCOVID Tongue: What Doctors Want You to Know COVID tongue is a condition characterized by sore tongue and throat caused by the COVID-19 virus. It’s clinically known as glossitis, but has become commonly referred to due to its association with COVID-19. Symptoms * Sore tongue and throat * Inflammation and swelling of the tongue * Loss of taste buds or papillae * White coating on the tongue Causes COVID-19 virus attacks ACE-2 receptors in the mouth, leading to inflammation and damage to the tongue’s taste buds. Prevalence COVID tongue is not a common symptom, but it has been reported by individuals with the virus. Studies estimate that around 15-20% of COVID-19 patients experience it. Treatment and Prevention There is no specific treatment for COVID tongue. Symptoms usually resolve on their own within days to weeks. Prevention involves avoiding COVID-19 infection through vaccination and other safety measures. When to See a Doctor Seek medical attention if you experience: * Severe pain * Difficulty swallowing * Severe swelling * Problems breathing Additional Information * COVID tongue is typically accompanied by other COVID-19 symptoms, but it can also occur on its own. * It’s important to differentiate COVID tongue from other causes of glossitis, such as other viruses, dry mouth, or allergies. * Vaccination remains the best way to prevent severe COVID-19 symptoms, including COVID tongue.‘COVID Tongue’ Emerges as a New Symptom As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, a new symptom has emerged: “COVID tongue.” Characterized by a swollen, inflamed tongue that may appear coated or bumpy, COVID tongue is believed to be caused by the virus’s inflammatory response in the body. It can occur at any stage of the infection and is not specific to severe cases. While the exact prevalence of COVID tongue is unknown, studies have estimated that it affects around 10% of patients. It is typically a temporary symptom that resolves within a few days or weeks. Symptoms of COVID Tongue The main symptom of COVID tongue is a swollen and inflamed tongue. Other symptoms can include: * Dryness * Bumps or nodules * Discoloration (red, white, or yellow) * Taste changes or distortion * Burning or tingling sensations Diagnosis COVID tongue is diagnosed based on its characteristic appearance. A doctor may also ask about other COVID-19 symptoms and perform a physical exam to rule out other potential causes. Treatment Currently, there is no specific treatment for COVID tongue. Symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories. Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, is also important to prevent infection. When to Seek Medical Attention While COVID tongue is usually a mild symptom, it can sometimes be a sign of a more serious infection. If you experience the following symptoms, seek medical attention: * Severe swelling or pain * Difficulty breathing, speaking, or swallowing * Fever or chills * Rash or other skin changes Conclusion COVID tongue is a new symptom of COVID-19 that is characterized by a swollen and inflamed tongue. While it is typically a temporary and mild symptom, it can be a sign of a more serious infection in some cases. If you experience COVID tongue, practice good oral hygiene and contact your doctor if symptoms worsen.