The meaning of having white patches on your tongue

The presence of white patches on the tongue could indicate a condition known as oral thrush or candidiasis. Oral thrush is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of a yeast called Candida albicans in the mouth....CONTINUE READING

The white patches on the tongue may appear as a thick, white coating that can be easily scraped off. Other symptoms may include redness or soreness in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and a bad taste in the mouth.

Oral thrush can occur in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It can also affect people who take certain medications, such as antibiotics, which can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the mouth and allow Candida to overgrow.

If you suspect that you have oral thrush, it is important to see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment. Treatment may include antifungal medications or other measures to control the overgrowth of Candida in the mouth.