What causes a thick white tongue coating and dry mouth?
Disease description:
Recently, I noticed that my tongue coating has turned white, and I have also been experiencing symptoms of dry mouth and throat. What are the causes of a thick white tongue coating accompanied by dry mouth and throat?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
The causes of thick white tongue coating and dry mouth may involve multiple aspects. They might be due to damp-heat, excessive stomach fire, or food accumulation. In a damp-heat environment, the functions of the spleen and stomach may be affected, potentially leading to dry mouth and thick white tongue coating. Long-term consumption of spicy, greasy foods or overeating can trigger excessive stomach fire and food stagnation, resulting in thick white tongue coating and dry mouth. Poor oral hygiene, causing food debris to accumulate on the tongue surface for prolonged periods, may also contribute to thick white tongue coating. To address these issues, it is recommended to adjust dietary habits, avoid spicy and greasy foods, maintain good oral hygiene, and engage in appropriate physical exercise to improve spleen and stomach functions and promote the elimination of dampness from the body. If necessary, consult a physician regarding pharmacological treatment.
