Causes and risk factors:
Lingual papillae are present on the dorsal aspect of the tongue which gives it a rough texture. Due to abrasion of the tongue while eating there can occur accumulation of a protein named keratin. Bacteria and yeast then harbors on it causing color changes. Poor dental hygiene, excessive drinking of alcohol and tobacco and certain medications like alcohol also contribute to the causation. At times the color changes on the tongue can be due to intake of certain food substances e.g.: syzgium jambul, beetroot etc.
Clinical presentations:
As the name suggest, black streak appearance is seen on the tongue on its dorsal aspect giving a hair like appearance. However the dorsal aspect can also show brown, green or pink color coating. It usually starts from back of the tongue and then moves towards the tip. In most of the cases the patient can be asymptomatic while some may complain of burning sensation in mouth or sensation of ticking on the soft palate during swallowing. Bitter taste in mouth or altered taste along with halitosis are other accompanying symptoms.
Diagnosis and investigations:
Diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient or the oral examination with the help of the tongue depressor. Generally no investigations are required. If any other symptoms persist. The doctor can suggest some sets of investigations like routine blood test, blood culture etc.
Treatment:
Black hairy tongue does not require any treatment. It resolves on its own. Maintaining of good oral hygiene and cleaning of tongue is sufficient. The causative factors like the food substance causing color changes should be avoided. Although uncommon in some of the adamant cases medical intervention or surgery is necessary.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
Facts and figures:
Almost 13% of the population is affected by black hairy tongue.
