Hypothyroidism and the Geographic Tongue: What is the Connection?

Hypothyroidism leads to a variety of secondary health complications, many of which we do not relate to the metabolic disorder. If you have been diagnosed with a thyroid disorder, it is important to become familiar with the dynamics of your secondary health risks, including those that may adversely affect your oral health.

Changes in oral health, among thyroid patients, are typically caused by the changes in chemical composition within the saliva. When the body fails to metabolize food properly, or to maintain homeostasis in biochemicals, the saliva is often the first bodily fluid to manifest a change. When saliva changes in chemical composition, there can be changes in the appearance of the tongue - often leading to the development of a condition known as "geographic tongue".

Geographic tongue is the term used to describe the change in the appearance of the tongue, usually along the top side. When the tongue begins to develop patches of white tissue, or ring-like appearance, this is typically indicative of a change in saliva composition. While the condition is not harmful to the tongue, it is often an early warning sign that malnutrition and complications with metabolism are present.

Hypothyroidism and geographic tongue are typically not conditions we associate with one another. However, if you have been diagnosed with a thyroid disorder, examining your tongue on a regular basis can give you the insight you need to determine if further evaluation is necessary. For many hypothyroid patients, the changes in tongue appearance often lead to consultation with a nutritionist in an effort to rebalance health and improve oral health.

Because not all cases of geographic tongue are related to a hypothyroid complication, it is important to seek out medical treatment from a healthcare provider when you begin to notice the change and feel of your tongue developing. Geographic tongue, of course, can be associated with yeast infection and other oral health issues for which thyroid disorder is not related. But, when living with a thyroid disorder, much like vitiligo disease, always be prepared for these types of secondary health complications.

Sources: What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Hypothyroidism, by Ken Blanchard