Is a White Tongue a Sign of Dehydration?
Medically reviewed by Edmund Khoo, DDSMedically reviewed by Edmund Khoo, DDSWhite tongue can be a sign of dehydration, or not having enough fluid in your body. When you’re dehydrated, your mouth becomes dry, which can lead to a buildup of bacteria on the tongue. The bacteria can appear as a white coating on the tongue. There are other causes of a white tongue. If your tongue suddenly changes appearance or you have a white bump on the tongue, you may need medical attention.
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What Does a Dehydrated Tongue Look Like?If you are dehydrated, the saliva glands in your mouth won’t produce as much fluid. This can lead to a buildup of bacteria on the tongue, and give the appearance of white tongue. A white tongue from dehydration is more common in people who experience chronic dehydration, including those on chemotherapy and certain other medications.If you’re dehydrated, you may also notice that your tongue looks “hairy” or inflamed. This is caused by the same buildup of bacteria that causes the white appearance. Other Symptoms With a Dehydration TongueA white tongue is not one of the primary symptoms of dehydration. You are more likely to notice other symptoms first, including:ConfusionDecreased urination and a darker urine color than normalDizziness, light-headedness, or faintingDry mouth and skinExtreme thirstIrregular heart rateWhat to Do If You Are DehydratedIf you’re dehydrated you need to rehydrate by drinking water. Here’s how to rehydrate safety:Take small sips of water.Avoid drinking too much too fast, which can lead to an electrolyte imbalance.Supplement water with juice or electrolyte drinks.Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.When to Seek Emergency Care for DehydrationIf you experience fainting, vomiting, confusion, or extreme listlessness, it’s time to seek emergency medical care. An emergency room can quickly evaluate you for dehydration and help you rehydrate safely. Other Potential Causes of a White TongueWhite spots on the tongue can have many other causes beside dehydration. These can include a burn or bite that’s healing. The causes below can also contribute to a white tongue or white spots in the mouth.Poor Oral HygieneWhen you have poor oral hygiene, bacteria can build up on your tongue and give it a white appearance. Brushing your teeth and tongue regularly, and eating a diet that includes rough foods (like fruits and vegetables) can help. Oral ThrushOral thrush is a yeast-related infection that causes white spots in the mouth. It’s most common in babies and people with dentures, although anyone can develop it. If you have thrush, the white patches can be wiped away, though they will return.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023.
Geographic TongueGeographic tongue is a harmless condition that causes “bald patches” on the surface of the tongue. It can also cause white areas on the tongue and other discolorations.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet and ©Raimo Suhonen dermnetnz.org 2023.
LeukoplakiaLeukoplakia is a condition that causes white patches on the tongue and mouth that are related to tobacco use. The white patches cannot be wiped away. In some cases, leukoplakia can increase your risk for oral cancer, so it’s important to see your healthcare provider if you have this condition.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Professor Deborah Greenspan dermnetnz.org 2023.
Oral Lichen PlanusLichen planus is an autoimmune disease that causes a rash in various areas of the body. It can also include a white rash in the mouth and on the tongue.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Raimo Suhonen dermnetnz.org 2023.
UlcersUlcers are white wounds on the tongue or elsewhere in the mouth. They generally resolve on their own, but can sometimes indicate a more serious condition. For example, oral syphilis leads to these white ulcers on the tongue, as can tongue cancer.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023.
Tongue CancerWhite spots on the tongue are a primary symptom of tongue cancer, although with pain and numbness in the mouth.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider for White TongueIf your white tongue comes on suddenly but resolves within a few days, you’re likely fine. However, a white tongue can be a sign of serious illness, including tongue cancer. If you’re ever worried about your white tongue, see a healthcare provider who can rule out the most dangerous causes.SummaryDehydration can cause a white tongue over time. That’s because when you’re dehydrated you don’t produce as much saliva, which can lead to a buildup of bacteria and debris that have a white appearance. This is more common in people who are on medication, like chemotherapy, and who eat a smooth diet like a liquid diet.Other common causes for white tongue, including oral thrush and tongue cancer. If you’re concerned about your white tongue and it doesn’t resolve with brushing, see a healthcare provider to rule out any potentially dangerous illnesses. Read the original article on Verywell Health.
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