Dehydrated Tongue: What Your Mouth is Telling You

The Natural Hydration Council recommends that the average man and woman drink 2.5 and 2 litres of water each day, respectively. Unfortunately, it can be easy to neglect your body's hydration needs. That's when you become dehydrated – a state where your body doesn't have the amount of fluid required to function. Most day-to-day cases of dehydration are moderate and can be cured by increasing water or fluid intake. When dehydration becomes more serious, however, you'll notice it in your body's functions. Urination becomes dark and less frequent and you might get a headache. As dehydration becomes more serious, the NHS warns that you could experience unusual tiredness, confusion, dizziness that doesn't pass, a weak pulse, and even fits.

When you're not properly hydrated, your body works to conserve the fluid it does have. That's why one of the first signs of dehydration is decreased saliva production. Your tongue might feel dry and even swollen as your body reduces saliva production to conserve fluid. A dry, dehydrated tongue isn't a sign that your mouth is dehydrated; it's a sign that your entire body requires more fluids.

According to the NHS Warwickshire, a normal tongue is covered with thousands of tiny projections called papillae which give the tongue a rough textured surface and can occasionally be red and large, smooth and round. It should also be well-moistened, with saliva functioning to help you break down food before digestion and coat and protect your teeth from bacteria and decay. If your tongue is dry and rough, it could mean that it's not well-hydrated. Drinking more water should be your first line of defence against dehydration, but you can also try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on ice or lozenges to help relieve the dry mouth that can accompany dehydration.

If you feel like you're well-hydrated and drinking enough water every day, yet you're still suffering from a dry, dehydrated tongue, it might be a sign of a more serious issue. If the problem is chronic, it's best to talk to your health care provider. Some of the causes of a dry tongue and mouth include:

• Autoimmune diseases such as Addison's disease and Sjogren's syndrome
• A side effect of medication
• A side effect of chemotherapy or radiotherapy
• Hormonal changes
• Infection

While you're experiencing a dehydrated tongue, it's important to keep your teeth safe from the effects of low saliva. Brush and floss regularly, and use peroxide-free and alcohol-free mouthwashes to avoid drying out your mouth.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.