A white coated tongue is a common condition in which a white coating forms on the upper surface of the tongue and it is a sign and symptom of Oral Thrush (Candidiasis).
This is common in newborn babies, patients who are diabetic, immune compromised, those who uses dentures and in old age.
Candidiasis of the mouth and throat, also known as a “thrush” or oropharyngeal Candidiasis, is a fungal infection that occurs when there is overgrowth of fungus called Candida.
Candida is normally found on skin or mucous membranes. However, if the environment inside the mouth or throat becomes imbalanced, Candida can multiply. When this happens, symptoms of thrush (a white tongue) appear.
White coated tongues are found in newborn infants, but it can also be found in people with weakened immune systems like post radiation and chemotherapy for cancer. People with white tongues may have painless, white patches in their mouths and throats. If you have the fungal overgrowth in your esophagus, symptoms may include pain and difficulty in swallowing.
Treatment
1. Adding plain yogurt to your diet will help to cure coated tongue. Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria called acidophilus, which help to correct the microbial imbalance in the body that causes coated tongue. Alternatively, a nutritional supplement that contains the acidophilus bacteria can be taken to cure coated tongue. Yogut® and Providac® are commonly prescribed.
2. An anti-fungal medication is commonly available in a topical form that must be sucked, or in a liquid form that must be held in the mouth before it’s swallowed. Two of the most widely prescribed anti-fungal treatments for curing coated tongue are Nystatin (Mycostatin) and Flucanzole. Gentian violet is a natural antifungal treatment that can be used to treat and cure coated tongue. If liquid form is not available the tablets can be crushed and applied on the tongue.
3. When coated tongue is caused by an underlying condition, treating that condition will cure it. Some of the medical conditions that cause coated tongue include diabetes mellitus and Post immunotherapy.
4. Brushing the tongue regularly can help to cure coated tongue by dislodging dead cells, food debris and bacteria that build up between the papillae on the tongue. (Papillae are the little finger-like projections on the surface of the tongue.) Dentures must be thoroughly cleaned to kill fungus.
