The Telltale Tongue
THE TONGUE.—A dry tongue denotes intestinal irritation or nasal obstruction; a furred tongue occurs in nearly all fevers, in jaundice and nasal obstruction. Yellow, white or brown fur without fever points to indigestion or constipation, accompanied by liver trouble. A trembling tongue denotes nervous debility or a disease of the nervous system. Blueness indicates interference with respiration and circulation; and deep redness, intestinal irritation.
A beefy tongue occurs in chronic inflammation of the bowels or the liver, and in diabetes. GUMS.—A blue line at the junction of gums and the teeth indicates chronic lead-poisoning. Spongy and bleeding gums generally occur in stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth) and pyorrhea, and in several other conditions. It should not be forgotten that broken teeth and poorly-fitting dentures also may be responsible. Pyorrhea causes recession of the gums, often with bleeding and pus. Pale gums indicate anemia.