What is Geographic Tongue? Why Does it Happen?

Normally, the surface of our tongue is covered with tiny hair-like structures (papillae). In the case of geographic tongue, these papillae shed, creating smooth red islands on the tongue. Although the exact cause is not fully known, it is thought to have a strong connection with genetic predisposition, extreme stress, Vitamin B/zinc deficiencies, and psoriasis.

The most interesting feature of geographic tongue is that it does not stay fixed. A map-shaped lesion on the right side of your tongue today may heal after a few days and reappear on the left side or tip of the tongue. The lesions literally migrate across the tongue.

It is generally completely painless and is noticed by chance. However, because the papillae have shed, those parts of the tongue become very sensitive. Severe burning and stinging may occur on the tongue when spicy, hot, acidic (lemon, pineapple), or very hot foods are eaten. There is no specific drug treatment; if it causes discomfort, topical pain-relieving mouthwashes or cortisone drops may be recommended by a doctor.