An infected tongue is referred to as "glossitis" by the medical community. Depending on the type of infection, the signs and symptoms will vary. Tongue infections are visually unattractive and they can make their sufferer feel self conscious. Having a tongue infection can be extremely painful and can interfere with daily life. It can also interfere with a person’s ability to eat, swallow, breathe and communicate with others.
Pain and Swelling
Pain and swelling are common side effects of an infected tongue. The National Library of Medicine reports that swelling may in turn cause problems with a person’s speech, chewing and swallowing. This swelling can make it difficult for the person to get the proper nutrition they need. It can also make it difficult to effectively communicate. In very severe cases, the tongue can become so swollen that it blocks the airway.
Smooth Tongue
An infected tongue can become smooth looking and the papillae (finger like projections on the top of the tongue) may disappear. A smooth tongue can also become increasingly sensitive and painful. Due to this pain, many people report having difficulty eating, and drinking. This condition can also interfere with a person’s ability to taste foods.
Blotchy Tongue
There are cases of glossitis in which the tongue may take on a blotchy look. In fact, one condition, called “geographic tongue,” causes the tongue to look like a map. These blotchy areas may actually change locations from day to day. The blotches may look red and raised and many people report having burning pain. Treatment for this problem must be given by a physician.
Yeast Infection
Yeast infections of the tongue are often called "thrush." Yeast or candidiasis on the tongue may cause creamy white lesions on the tongue's surface. The Mayo Clinic website reports that the tongue may also become red and have areas of bleeding. The tongue is also sensitive to the touch and in severe cases the lesions can actually move down the throat and esophagus.
Herpes Virus
When an infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus I (HSV-1), the tongue may have blisters or sores all over. These sores make the tongue look like it has polka dots all over it. This is an extremely painful condition and makes it difficult for the person to eat, drink or even talk.
Sources:
National Library of Medicine; Glossitis; 2009
The Mayo Clinic; Oral Thrush; 2009
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