Cracks in the child's tongue

The appearance of the language can tell a lot: for example, you can understand if the child is healthy, etc. Cracks in the tongue are also an unfavorable sign and an obvious reason to call a doctor.

Cracks in the tongue are often found: this is a common phenomenon, both in dentistry and among other areas of medicine. This symptom can accompany various painful conditions and has many causes of occurrence.

[1], [2], [3], [4]

Epidemiology

There are no reliable statistical data on such a feature as cracks in a child's language. Experts have calculated that at least a quarter of all cases associated with oral pain are related to the appearance of cracks.

Most often, cracks are found in patients of middle and old age, as well as in young children (since the beginning of teething).

Diseases of the tongue can be equally common in both men and women.

[5], [6], [7], [8]

Causes of the cracks in the child's tongue

Cracks in the tongue can be the result of an inflammatory process in the tissues of the tongue - glossitis. However, other diseases may become the cause:

• disorders of the digestive function;
• diseases of the hematopoietic system;
• nerve diseases;
• helminthic lesions;
• disorders in the hormonal sphere;
• deficiency of vitamins and microelements;
• dental pathology (for example, the installation of non-conforming prostheses).

Cracks can occur with syphilis, erythema, lichen, as well as allergic reactions - food, oral care, etc.

Among other things, we can not exclude the possibility of damage to the tongue due to injuries. So, often there is a biting of the tongue during a meal or conversation. Under certain conditions, the wound from the bite may bleed and ulcerate.

If cracks appear on the tongue, it's unlikely that they will be able to guess the cause of their occurrence. You should consult a doctor - for example, with a dentist. If necessary, give directions for consultation of other specialists: gastroenterologist, endocrinologist, venereologist, etc.

Cracks in children are most often formed during the appearance of teeth and during puberty. Thus, the most vulnerable age in this respect is from six months to three years and from 12 to 16 years. In these periods, a symptom such as geographical, or desquamative, language can be formed. The reasons for its appearance have not been thoroughly studied, so there is no specific treatment for the problem. Concomitant signs - such as a burning sensation, tingling sensations, pain, are eliminated with the help of symptomatic treatment.

It is noticed that after elimination of the cause (with the normalization of the hormonal background, at the end of the period of teething), the tongue acquires a normal appearance, and the cracks disappear.

Cracks in the language since childhood - or rather, from birth, this is the so-called folded glossitis, which belongs to the category of congenital anomalies with predominant manifestations in the field of language. In congenital pathology, all possible longitudinal and transverse folds and cracks are formed in the child from birth, having different depth and length. In this case, as a rule, the deepest crack passes along the midline of the organ.

With a folded glossitis, the child does not make any complaints, nothing disturbs him. We can say that in this aspect glossitis is not considered as a disease, but as an individual innate feature of the organism.

Risk factors

Factors that could become a trigger mechanism for the appearance of cracks are the following:

• gum disease, teeth, irregular bite, substandard dentures, braces;
• systemic diseases, chronic and sluggish pathologies;
• metabolic disorders (especially diabetes mellitus );
• neuropsychic disorders, regular stressful situations, phobias;
• ignoring hygienic care for the oral cavity;
• propensity to allergic processes.

Among the rare causes of the appearance of cracks in the language can be called:

• the Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome;
• Down's syndrome.

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Pathogenesis

The reasons for the formation of cracks in the child are numerous. In this case, the most common mechanical damage, violations from the vessels, inflammatory changes in tissues.

The crack is equally often found on the side edges, on the tip and on the front surface of the tongue. Less often - at the bottom of the tongue.

Often there is a combination of several cracks. With the accumulation of food and drink in them, local inflammation forms, especially if the lesions are wide and deep. A defect in the mucous tissue is formed, the nerve endings are exposed, which leads to a long and severe pain syndrome. A new intake of food prevents healing, provoking tissue ischemia. In addition to the presence of food masses in the mouth, there are a number of other irritants: smoking, drinking alcohol, vascular disease, endocrine and digestive system diseases,

[10], [11]

Symptoms of the cracks in the child's tongue

Cracks can be the only painful symptom, or be supplemented with other symptoms - for example, swelling, the appearance of spots, ulcers, etc.

The cracks themselves are sometimes single, sometimes - multiple. In addition, their localization can also tell a lot.

• The crack in the middle of the tongue, as a rule, differs by a great depth of penetration into the tissue. Therefore, as an additional symptom, of course, there is pain - a sharp increase in the consumption of food and drinks, as well as in conversation or language tension. A similar condition, in which the tongue and cracks in the tongue hurts, in most cases indicates the presence of an inflammatory reaction - for example, with glossitis. This can be a folded or diamond-shaped process.
• A longitudinal crack in the tongue may be accompanied by reddening and inflammation of the organ. This happens with glossitis - and with any of their varieties.
• Transverse cracks in the tongue are a consequence of weakened immunity, vitamin deficiency. In this case, you need to carefully compare the symptoms and pass the tests to determine which particular vitamin in the body is not enough.
• White language and cracks in large numbers - this is a sure sign of intestinal diseases, most likely - a chronic nature. This condition is accompanied by a regular disorder of the intestines: constipation, diarrhea, bloating.
• A crack at the tip of the tongue is often a consequence of mechanical damage. For example, this happens after burns, bites. Cracks at the end of the tongue also arise as a result of a disorder in the function of the nervous system. Weak immune protection can also manifest itself by such a sign: in this case, the crack on the tip of the tongue does not bother, however, it does not heal for a long time. Additional symptoms may include frequent colds, headaches, viral infections.
• The tongue is red and the cracks, the glossy surface, the flattening of the papillae are symptoms of an inflammatory process like the Günther glossitis. Pathology occurs as a result of vitamin deficiency. If the tongue is seizing, red and in cracks, then this is a clear sign of inflammation, requiring consultation of a medical specialist.
• Deep cracks in the tongue are a common symptom of endocrine pathologies. For example, the fault may be the thyroid gland, an increased level of glucose in the body. In addition, there are increased fatigue, thirst, sleep disturbances.
• Cracks in the tongue and burning are present in any glossitis. At the same time, the deeper the crack penetrates, the greater the discomfort the patient experiences. Burning and pain accrue during eating and when moving with tongue.
• Cracks on the sides of the tongue often indicate the diseases of internal organs, in particular, the liver and hepatobiliary system. Problems with the liver and digestive system are also indicated by a loose tongue with cracks: the body swells, and often dental patches remain on the lateral surfaces. The tongue becomes vulnerable to trauma, it is easy to bite. Plaque and cracks in the tongue at the sides are common signs of anemia, thyroid disease and digestive system. In addition, swelling may indicate problems with the nervous system.
• Cracks in the tongue and lips are considered probable signs of diabetes mellitus or severe vitamin deficiency. If a person has been starving for a long time, or took monotonous meager food, then it is possible to suspect hypovitaminosis.
• Spots and cracks in the tongue are present in parasitic invasions, metabolic disturbances. Peculiar spots in the form of fine lines are a symptom of the desquamative inflammatory process.
• Under the tongue, cracks form during stomatitis, hormonal disorders, and diseases of the cardiovascular system. For an accurate diagnosis, you need to see a doctor and go through a series of examinations.
• Ulcers and cracks in the tongue are provoked by regular or severe stress, nervous exhaustion, abnormal wearing of dentures and braces. Ulcers can also become a sign of diabetes mellitus - and mainly in patients older than fifty years.
• Large cracks in the tongue often indicate a disturbed metabolism or weakened immunity. In addition, it can be a reaction to antibiotics or an allergy to food. It is important to analyze and compare all possible factors to find the cause of large painful cracks.
• Dry mouth and cracks in the tongue, constant thirst and dryness in the throat - these symptoms indicate problems with the endocrine system. To clarify the pathology, it is necessary to pass tests - in particular, on the content of glucose in the blood.
• Yellow coating and cracks in the tongue in almost all cases are considered a consequence of liver disease. Additional symptoms are: yellowness sclera, bad breath, intolerance to fatty foods.
• Congenital cracks in the tongue - this is a relatively rare phenomenon that occurs when there is a genetic predisposition to such a pathology. Such cracks do not lend themselves to treatment: they are called "folded tongue".
• A crack in the root of the tongue is a sign of vitamin deficiency or dehydration. As a rule, the condition can be aggravated by headaches, thirst, constant feeling of fatigue, deterioration of hair quality, skin, nails.

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Complications and consequences

If the child is not taken to the doctor, or the prescribed treatment is ignored, the pathological reaction can pass from the tissues of the tongue to the entire oral cavity and even the upper respiratory tract.

Abscesses can develop, which will require an operative intervention.

The risk of tissue structure disruption and development of malignant formation is low. Nevertheless, it is possible and this development of events - for example, with a prolonged course of the inflammatory process in the tissues.

[13], [14], [15]

Diagnostics of the cracks in the child's tongue

Diagnosis is usually not a problem: cracks can always be seen when viewed. However, since cracks are just a symptom that has its root causes, the diagnosis should be complete and include a number of additional studies. After all, the doctor's goal is to find the cause of such an unfavorable trait.

For this, the doctor will prescribe the tests:

• a general study of blood (to characterize the general state of health, clarify the presence of inflammation, anemia, etc.);
• biochemistry of blood (for evaluation of liver function, metabolic processes, immune system);
• analysis for the presence of TORCH-infections, HIV, syphilis (RW).

Instrumental diagnostics can include:

• bacteriological test of flushing or scraping from the affected side of the tongue, to determine the microbial pathogen;
• histological method for detecting malignant changes.

Differential diagnosis

Differential diagnosis is carried out with such diseases as:

• glossitis - an inflammatory process of the tissues of the tongue;
• secondary syphilis;
• red flat lichen;
• Scleroderma of a systemic nature;
• flat form of leukoplakia.

Treatment of the cracks in the child's tongue

If, apart from the immediate cracks, the child does not care about anything else, it is possible to confine oneself to local treatment. If the disease is associated with other pathologies, then therapy necessarily begins with the elimination of the root cause. It often happens that cracks in the tongue pass independently after the treatment of the underlying pathology.

When there are painful and other unpleasant sensations, except special treatment, prescribe and local exposure to drugs.

Assign a diet with the exclusion of irritating foods: acidic, salty, spicy and hot food.

Depending on the cause of the disease, apply antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and immunocorrective drugs. In a marked inflammatory process, treatment with hormonal drugs, such as prednisolone or hydrocortisone, may be required. Before proceeding to treatment, it should be noted that virtually all drugs have a number of contraindications and side effects, so they can only be taken after consulting a medical specialist.

To disinfect the surface of the tongue, it should be periodically treated with special solutions. For this purpose, a solution of furacilin, manganese, chlorhexidine, etc. Is often used.

To eliminate painful sensations, anesthetics are prescribed. This may be lidocaine, or a special preparation called Kamistad, which is a combination of lidocaine and extract from chamomile.

To accelerate the restoration of damaged tissues, apply applicator application of oils of sea buckthorn or dog rose, drugs Actovegin or Vinisol.

If there is a film on the tongue, then before applying the local preparations, it should be removed with a cotton pad or swab. If the dense deposit is too dense, proteolytic use is often required: trypsin, chymotrypsin, etc.

Medications that promote the healing of cracks in the tongue

Antibiotics
Rovamycin	Take 6-9 million IU per day, dividing into 2-3 admission. Rovamycin is not used during lactation and in childhood.
Iruksol	Used externally, to remove plaque on the tongue with a cotton pad.
Antiseptics
Lizak	Tablets are designed for resorption in the oral cavity - one tablet with an interval of 1-3 hours. The maximum permissible daily dosage is 10 tablets.
Stomatin	0.1% solution is applied topically, for rinsing, or for application with a tampon. On average, treatment lasts 5 days. The drug is non-toxic and usually well tolerated.
Immunomodulants
Imudon	Tablets for resorption are taken in eight pieces per day, for ten days. Rarely, but the drug can cause allergies.
Ginseng tincture	Take 25 drops three times a day, for a month. The drug is not recommended for use in childhood and during pregnancy.
Anti-inflammatory drugs
Tantum Verde	Use in the form of tablets or a spray: tablets are taken for resorption in the mouth (1 unit 4 times a day), and the spray is sprayed 4-8 doses every 2-3 hours. The duration of treatment is determined individually. The drug can sometimes cause dry mouth and malfunction of the mucosa.
Ketoprofen	Apply as a rinse solution, two or three times a day. It is contraindicated to apply the drug to children under six years old.

Vitamins for eliminating cracks in the tongue

Cracks often appear as a result of a deficiency of vitamins B ₂, B ₆, PP and C.

• Vitamin B ₂  - is found in dairy products, fish, liver, buckwheat, oatmeal. The drug can be taken orally 10-30 mg per day, or intramuscularly 5-20 mg per day. Duration of admission - from 2 to 4 weeks.
• Vitamin B ₆  - is found in cereals, beans, bananas, meat, liver, yeast. The drug is taken at 1.4-2 mg per day.
• Vitamin PP - is found in potatoes, rice, carrots, meat products. The daily requirement for this vitamin is 14-25 mg.
• Vitamin C is found in most vegetables, fruits, berries. In addition, if necessary, the drug can be taken orally - 0.5 g per day.

Physiotherapeutic treatment

With complex, sluggishly healing cracks, it is advisable to prescribe physiotherapy. Physiotherapeutic procedures reduce the activity of the inflammatory reaction, soothe the pain and stimulate the recovery processes.

In the case of cracks in the tongue, the following procedures are shown:

• Electrophoresis of anesthetics - with lidocaine, trimecaine, etc. The session lasts 20 minutes. Repeat - daily, for 12 days.
• Electrophoresis of Group B vitamins can be combined with anesthetics. The session lasts six minutes, daily, during the week.
• DiaDinamotherapy - as an anesthetic. The session lasts six minutes, daily, during the week.
• Ultrasound and ultraphonophoresis with analgin.
• Darsonvalization - means a 2-minute exposure to the affected area of the tongue, for ten sessions, daily.
• Laser therapy, cryotherapy - according to indications.

Alternative treatment

If cracks do not indicate a serious illness, some simple alternative methods can help to solve this problem. However, one must take into account that in serious cases one should consult doctors and treat the disease in a complex manner.

• In the morning before breakfast, smear the surface of the tongue with olive oil or sea buckthorn oil, stand for about ten minutes.
• A little fresh home-made cottage cheese is mixed with the same amount of sour cream. The mass is placed in a clean gauze napkin and applied to the affected area on the tongue for five minutes. This is done daily at night, for 7-10 days.
• Before going to bed thoroughly chew a small piece of propolis or honeycomb. After that, you can not eat or drink anything until the morning.

When cracks appear, it is desirable to diversify your diet. However, it is better to refuse from acidic and sharp products, so as not to irritate the already irritated tissues. In addition, it is necessary to exclude smoking - even in small volumes.

Herbal Treatment

The use of herbal infusions and decoctions effectively complements the traditional treatment of cracks in the tongue. We suggest you pay attention to such methods of alternative therapy:

• Every day, three times a day, you should rinse the oral cavity infusion of chamomile color. To make it you need to take 1 tbsp. L. Raw and pour 200 ml of boiling water, insist to room temperature. Rinse immediately after eating.
• In the morning and in the evening you need to rinse your mouth with a decoction of oak bark. To make it, you need to take 2 tbsp. L. Shallow bark, pour 400 ml of water, put on fire, bring to a boil and turn off the fire. Cover and insist for 30 minutes.
• Every morning and at night you can do compresses from the infusion of sage with celandine. You need to take 1 tbsp. L. Of each plant, pour 300 ml of boiling water and insist 30-40 minutes under the lid. Further in the received solution it is necessary to moisten gauze and attach to the tongue. To sustain, how many will turn out. The remaining infusion can be rinsed.

Homeopathy

Homeopathic preparations from cracks in the tongue are represented by a fairly extensive list: they are selected individually, depending on the causes of this phenomenon, as well as on the presence of additional symptoms. The constitutional type of the patient is also taken into account.

It is possible to use such means of homeopathy:

• Borax - eliminates the inflammatory process, including stomatitis.
• Carbo vegetalis - helps with cracks, which are accompanied by white sores and bloom.
• Kali muricum is used for such additional symptoms as swelling of the tongue and an unpleasant odor.
• Mercury Corrosive - can be prescribed with a grayish coating on the surface of the tongue.
• Sarsaparilla - helps to eliminate cracks, whitish plaque and sores.
• Graphite and Sempervivum - used in the viral origin of the disease.
• Thuja - is used for bladder glossitis.

Dosages of the drugs are strictly individual.

Side-effects during treatment are very rare and appear in some cases in the form of allergies to a particular drug.

Surgery

When there are cracks in the language, the question of the operation is raised very rarely. This is possible only in isolated cases, with the appearance of complications:

• when forming an abscess in the tongue or in the oral cavity;
• if there is an inflammatory process in the deep tissues of the tongue.

In any other cases, the purpose of the operation is not shown.

Prevention

Preventive measures include the following:

• timely access to medical care for any diseases;
• observance of sanitary and hygienic norms and rules;
• regular consultations and examinations of the dentist;
• high-grade high-quality food;
• unacceptability of bad habits;
• hardening, support of the immune system, regular intake of vitamins;
• inadmissibility of self-medication, whatever medications.

It is important to visit the doctor for any suspicious symptoms: anemia and hypovitaminosis should not be tolerated.

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Forecast

When conducting timely adequate treatment, the prognosis can be considered favorable. Treatment should be aimed at neutralizing the traumatic cause or eliminating the underlying pathology.

In most cases, cracks in the tongue are reversible and heal without a trace.

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