Chronic Glossitis: Causes and Treatment Options

Questions about the causes of chronic glossitis?

Hello Doctor, since I changed my air conditioner around April, I haven't been sleeping well.
Later, I developed a condition of glossitis that initially affected the tip of my tongue and lasted for a month without improvement (it was just red, no sores).
I consulted various ENT specialists and oral surgeons, who suggested it might be due to a cold or immune dysfunction.
There was a period when it seemed to improve, but it has since relapsed and has become intermittent.
I have been back to the ENT specialist for almost a month, and they noted that the base of my tongue and throat are red.
I would like to ask if this could be related to the changes in my environment since April, particularly the addition of a small amount of neutral silicone and some wall paper (I chose Dutch-made products out of concern for toxicity).
Initially, the silicone had a strange odor, but that has since dissipated.
I am now wondering if this could be a formaldehyde issue, as I did not pay attention to what brand of silicone was used during installation.
If it is formaldehyde, I have been exposed for almost five months; could this cause problems? If I need to seek further medical attention, which specialty should I consult?

Jiao lü zhong, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/10

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Sir/Madam,
1.
Formaldehyde is a colorless gas that can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and respiratory tract at low concentrations; exposure to high concentrations can lead to bronchopneumonia and pulmonary edema.
Long-term exposure or inhalation of formaldehyde solutions may result in allergies, eczematous dermatitis, or asthma.
In addition to causing mucosal irritation and allergic diseases, formaldehyde may increase the risk of cancer.
The U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies formaldehyde as a probable human carcinogen, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a part of the United Nations, has also classified formaldehyde as a human carcinogen, which can cause nasopharyngeal cancer and hematological malignancies.
Some studies have also found that formaldehyde exposure during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage and result in lower birth weights.
2.
Aside from direct exposure to formaldehyde in specific work environments, the concentration of formaldehyde indoors is generally not high.
If all windows are opened for ventilation for three days after renovations, it can significantly reduce indoor formaldehyde levels.
3.
Currently, there is no ideal biological detection method; that is, there is no reliable way to detect evidence of formaldehyde exposure and its correlation from blood or urine samples.
4.
Silicone, or silicone sealant, primarily consists of silicone-oxygen resin polymers, available in both solid and liquid forms, with varying pH levels.
It is widely used in various engineering and decoration projects.
Generally, as long as the concentration is not too high and there is good ventilation, the risk of poisoning is low.
5.
In summary, your risk of poisoning is low.
If you still have concerns, it is advisable to discuss them with your family physician or visit a toxicology clinic.
As for the issue of glossitis, it is recommended to consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist.

Reply Date: 2018/09/10

More Info

Chronic glossitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the tongue, which can manifest as redness, swelling, and changes in texture. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, allergic reactions, nutritional deficiencies, and irritants. In your case, it seems that the onset of your symptoms coincided with changes in your living environment, particularly the installation of a new air conditioning unit and the introduction of silicone materials.

Possible Causes of Chronic Glossitis
1. Environmental Irritants: The introduction of new materials, such as silicone and wall coverings, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde, especially when they are new. Formaldehyde is known to cause irritation of the mucous membranes, which could potentially lead to symptoms like glossitis. If you suspect that formaldehyde or other chemicals are causing your symptoms, it is advisable to ventilate the area well and minimize exposure.

2. Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins (like B12, B2, and folate), iron, and zinc, can lead to glossitis. It may be beneficial to evaluate your diet and consider supplementation if necessary.

3. Allergic Reactions: Allergies to certain foods, dental products, or environmental allergens can also lead to inflammation of the tongue. If you have introduced any new products into your routine (such as toothpaste or mouthwash), consider whether they could be contributing to your symptoms.

4. Infections: Fungal infections, such as oral thrush, or viral infections can cause glossitis. If you have a history of recurrent infections or other symptoms like a sore throat, this could be a contributing factor.

5. Autoimmune Conditions: Conditions like lichen planus or geographic tongue can also cause chronic glossitis. If your symptoms persist despite other treatments, further investigation into autoimmune causes may be warranted.

Treatment Options
1. Identify and Remove Irritants: If you suspect that the new silicone materials or other environmental factors are contributing to your glossitis, it may be beneficial to remove or replace them. Ensure that your living space is well-ventilated to minimize exposure to any potential irritants.

2. Nutritional Assessment: A thorough evaluation of your diet may help identify any deficiencies. Consider consulting with a healthcare provider or a nutritionist to assess your nutritional status and determine if supplementation is needed.

3. Topical Treatments: Depending on the severity of your symptoms, topical corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. Antifungal medications may be necessary if a fungal infection is suspected.

4. Hydration and Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene and staying well-hydrated can help alleviate symptoms. Use a gentle mouthwash and avoid irritants like alcohol and strong flavors.

5. Consultation with Specialists: Given the complexity of your symptoms and their persistence, it may be beneficial to consult with an allergist or an oral medicine specialist. They can conduct specific tests to identify potential allergens or underlying conditions.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop additional symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, severe pain, or systemic symptoms like fever, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A thorough examination and possibly further diagnostic tests may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of your chronic glossitis.

In conclusion, chronic glossitis can arise from various factors, and identifying the root cause is essential for effective treatment. Given your recent environmental changes, it is wise to consider potential irritants and consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

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