What Your Tongue Says About Your Health: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

According to health professionals, a simple daily check of your tongue may help detect potential health problems early. Dr. Anis Khalaf, a specialist in traditional Chinese medicine, explains that a quick look at your tongue each day can reveal important warning signs of underlying conditions.

What to Look For

Dr. Khalaf highlights three main indicators to pay attention to:

1. Tongue size (swollen or thin)

2. Tongue coating (thick or thin)

3. Tongue color (pink, red, yellow, or purple)

Each of these features may point to specific health concerns.

• A red tongue may signal inflammation or elevated body temperature

• A thick white coating could indicate a fungal infection

• A yellow coating is often linked to poor oral hygiene or bacterial buildup

• A purple hue might reflect circulation issues

What Does a Healthy Tongue Look Like?

Experts agree that a healthy tongue should appear pink with a thin white coating. Persistent changes such as sores that don’t heal, dark spots, or unusual textures, should prompt a professional evaluation.

Tips for Tongue Health

• Brush your teeth regularly

• Clean your tongue daily using a scraper or toothbrush

• Maintain good oral hygiene overall

While tongue checks are not a substitute for medical exams, they can serve as a valuable early detection tool. If you notice ongoing changes or symptoms, always consult a qualified healthcare provider, and avoid relying solely on online advice or self-diagnosis.