Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a common condition in which the body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. It happens when the thyroid gland doesn’t get enough iodine from the blood, or the pituitary gland doesn’t secrete enough thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary widely, depending on the severity of the condition. However, one symptom many people with hypothyroidism experience is white tongue.
For those who develop a coating on their tongue due to hypothyroidism or other causes, it can be hard to tell if they have this condition. It’s also not uncommon for white tongue to appear when someone has a common cold, so it’s important to know if your white tongue is related to something more serious than a simple illness. The tongue’s appearance can give clues about what’s going on with your health, but you should consult your doctor if you’re concerned about something like this.
A diagnosis of hypothyroidism can be made with a blood test or a physical exam. A doctor may also take an x-ray of the neck, which will help them determine if there are any signs of swelling or inflammation in this area.
