Hairy tongue is also relatively common. About 13 percent of the population will experience one form of hairy tongue at least once in their lifetimes. Hairy tongue is more common in older people, though it can develop at any age. More than one type of hairy tongue exists, and each has several identifying characteristics.
They all also happen to have different causes. Understanding which type you have and what causes it can help you learn to treat it. For example, a lack of stimulation on the top of the tongue can prevent proper shedding. A person who eats a soft-food diet may not have enough stimulation in their diet to cause enough abrasion. These include:. In addition, substances like bacteria and yeast can discolor the FP.
As the FP grow longer, these substances can get caught in the hair-like structures, which can lead to greater discoloration. White hairy tongues may be the result of hairy leukoplakia.
This condition causes small, white patches with hair-like texture. These patches can grow to cover the entire tongue. Unlike black hairy tongue, hairy leukoplakia has very specific causes. This condition is caused by two main conditions:. It can cause infectious mononucleosis , which is also called mono, among other illnesses.
Most people will have at least one encounter with EBV in their lifetimes. Once you encounter the virus, it remains in your body. The virus can be reactivated if you have a weak immune system. In some people, the hairy tongue may be the first sign of an HIV infection.
Hairy tongues can take on other hues, including brown, gray, pink, and green. In almost all cases, however, the causes are the same as black hairy tongue. For example, candies and mouthwashes can color the FP. How is oral hairy leukoplakia treated? What are the complications of oral hairy leukoplakia? They include low immunity and even death. Oral hairy leukoplakia often means that you need HIV treatment or that your healthcare provider needs to change your current treatment.
Can oral hairy leukoplakia be prevented? Preventing oral hairy leukoplakia starts by having a healthy immune system. Stick to your prescribed HIV treatment plan and dental hygiene routine. Also, take steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Practice safe sex, exercise regularly, and follow a healthy diet. Do not smoke. Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions or new symptoms.
When should I call my healthcare provider? Though often painless, oral hairy leukoplakia can be a warning sign of HIV or a severe immune system problem. See your healthcare provider right away. Key points about oral hairy leukoplakia Oral hairy leukoplakia is a condition that the Epstein-Barr virus can trigger. It happens most often in people whose immune systems are very weak and is most often seen in people with HIV. The condition causes white lesions, or patches, on the tongue. Treatment is aimed at treating the underlying immune problem, such as HIV.
Oral hairy leukoplakia can be a warning sign of HIV or a severely weakened immune system. Next steps Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider: Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
Goldstein BG, et al. Oral lesions. Mangold AR, et al. Diseases of the tongue. Clinics in Dermatology. Brushing your teeth. American Dental Association. Wilkinson JM expert opinion. Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 16, Related Black hairy tongue. Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic.
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