What causes white coating on tongue?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have small white and yellow lesions with a red border on my tongue. My tongue also develops a white coating that has to be scraped off daily. I have attached a photo of the same. What are the likely causes?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your complaint and the attached picture (attachment removed to protect patient identity). The blisters on your tongue that look like small white or yellow center lesions with a red border are most probably due to a fungal infection that occurs in the mouth or throat due to an overgrowth of yeast. It is called oral candidiasis or oral thrush. It can occur due to weakened immune systems, individuals with diabetes, and people taking inhaled steroids. After the use of antibiotics, which may kill good bacteria.

I suggest you try consuming yogurt, which may restore proper flora in your mouth. Use salt water to rinse your mouth. Try using Fluconazole, which is an oral antifungal medication. Use Nystatin mouthwash, which is an antifungal mouthwash that you rinse your mouth with and then swallow. Please take these medications under the observation of your dentist. Visit your nearby dentist to confirm the diagnosis. Your doctor may take a biopsy of it.

I hope this answer will help you.

Thank you.