Tongue pain or soreness
Geographic tongue
Geographic tongue is a condition where irregular smooth, red patches that have a white or light-coloured border occur on the tongue. It's called geographic tongue because the patches have a map-like appearance.
The patches can vary in size, and may occur on one area of the tonguebefore moving to another area after a few days, weeks or months.
In some people, the patches can feel sore or sensitive when consuming certain foods and drinks.
Some people with geographic tongue find it improves over time, while for others it may be more persistent.
See your GP or dentist if you havepersistent, discoloured or painful patches on your tongue.
The cause of geographic tongue isn't clear and there's no specific treatment for it.
However, you may be able to manage the pain by taking over-the-counter painkillers speak to your pharmacist for advice.
You should also avoid anything that makes it worse, such as acidic, spicy or hot foods.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dez 2018
Introduction
Find out about the possible causes of a sore or painful tongue. Common causes include geographic tongue, oral thrush and aphthous mouth ulcers.
Geographic tongue
Geographic tongue is a condition where irregular smooth, red patches that have a white or light-coloured border occur on the tongue. It's called geographic tongue because the patches have a map-like a
Oral thrush
Oral thrush (oral candiasis)is an infection caused by a type of fungus called Candida. It causes white patches (plaques) to develop in the mouth. You may experience a loss of taste or an unpleasant t
Aphthous mouth ulcers
Aphthous mouth ulcers are painful round or oval sores that can occur anywhere in the mouth and are common on the underside of the tongue. Mouth ulcers are sometimes caused by damage to the mouth, s
Less common causes
Less commonly, tongue pain may be caused by: a viral infection such asan infection that causes hand, foot and mouth disease or cold sores vitamin deficiencies and anaemia a sore tongue can some
Subscribe
Ask the doctor
Rate this article
Find products