What is "COVID tongue"? What are its symptoms and how can it be prevented? Know in detail

As COVID-19 has become endemic, new symptoms keep on arriving regularly. One of them noticed more frequently is the condition in which swollen tongues are seen that develop bumps, ulcers, and white patches. This is called 'COVID tongue.' Doctors have found that in people with COVID tongue, the top of their tongue becomes white and patchy, or they look red and appear swollen. They sometimes find bumps or open areas called ulcers on their tongue. Besides, people with 'COVID tongue' may also experience a loss of taste and a burning sensation in their mouth.

What is "COVID tongue"?

According to 'Parade', clinically it is "glossitis," but it is better known as "COVID tongue" because it occurs when someone gets infected with COVID-19. Explaining the symptoms, Dr. Linda Yancey, MD, the Director of Infection Prevention at the Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston told the outlet that COVID tongue refers to a condition in acute infection where the taste buds are attacked and temporarily damaged by the virus.

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Symptoms of "COVID Tongue"

On the other hand, talking to 'Parade', Dr. Omid Mehdizadeh, MD, an Otolaryngologist (ENT) and Laryngologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center said that the symptoms may include discomfort, burning, swelling, redness, change, or loss of taste, ulcers. Besides Plaque-like smooth areas register loss of the papillae or taste buds.

Can "COVID tongue" be prevented?

Explaining the reasons behind the COVID-19, Dr. Thomas Gut, D.O., Associate Chair of Medicine at Staten Island University Hospital said that COVID-19 attacks the bumps on the tongue, i.e., papilla, by using an angiotensin-converting enzyme receptor (ACE-2). Consequently, 'COVID tongue' symptoms can occur, including inflammation and swelling.

According to Dr. Mehdizadeh, 'COVID tongue' can not be prevented. He also said that the remedies utilized in the literature include multivitamins and minerals, and anti-septic oral rinse.

FAQs:

What is 'COVID tongue'?
Doctors have found that in people with COVID tongue, the top of their tongue becomes white and patchy, or they look red and appear swollen. They sometimes find bumps or open areas called ulcers on their tongue.

What is the reason behind 'COVID tongue'?
COVID-19 attacks the bumps on the tongue, i.e., papilla, by using an angiotensin-converting enzyme receptor (ACE-2). Consequently, COVID-19 tongue symptoms can occur, including inflammation and swelling.