Tongue, Hairy is a type of lichen that grows on rocks and trees in moist, shady areas. It is a foliose lichen, meaning it has a flat, leaf-like structure. The lichen is grayish-green in color and has a hairy texture. It is edible and has been used as a food source in some cultures.

The symptoms of hairy tongue include:

• A furry or hairy-looking tongue

• A discolored tongue (white, yellow, brown, , or green)

• A bad taste in the mouth

• A Burning sensation in the mouth

• A feeling of dryness in the mouth

• A feeling of fullness in the mouth

• A feeling of discomfort or Pain in the mouth

• Difficulty swallowing

• Bad breath

1. Vitamin B12 deficiency: Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause a condition called glossitis, which is an inflammation of the tongue that can cause it to become smooth, red, and swollen. This can also cause the tongue to become covered in a white, hairy-looking coating.

2. Oral thrush: Oral thrush is a fungal infection that can cause white patches to form on the tongue. These patches can have a hairy-like appearance.

3. Geographic tongue: Geographic tongue is a condition that causes patches of redness on the tongue. These patches can have a hairy-like appearance.

4. Oral lichen planus: Oral lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that can cause white patches to form on the tongue. These patches can have a hairy-like appearance.

5. Smoking: Smoking can

Treatment for hairy tongue depends on the underlying cause. Common treatments include:

1. Oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene is essential for treating and preventing hairy tongue. This includes brushing the tongue twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using a tongue scraper to remove bacteria and debris.

2. Antifungal medications: If the cause of hairy tongue is a fungal infection, antifungal medications may be prescribed.

3. Antibiotics: If the cause of hairy tongue is a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.

4. Topical medications: Topical medications, such as hydrogen peroxide, may be used to reduce the amount of bacteria on the tongue.

5. Laser therapy: Laser therapy may be used to remove the excess tissue that causes the hairy appearance.

Risk factors for tongue, hairy leukoplakia include:

1. Smoking
2. Poor oral hygiene
3. HIV/AIDS
4. Immunosuppression
5. Certain medications
6. Chronic irritation of the tongue
7. Alcohol abuse
8. Diabetes
9. Nutritional deficiencies
10. Stress

There is no cure for tongue, hairy. However, medications such as topical corticosteroids, antifungal creams, and laser treatments may be used to reduce the symptoms.