Is it normal for a child's tongue surface to be irregularly red and white?

Patient's question:

9 months, the child's tongue surface is irregularly red and white, like a map. What are some good ways to treat it?

Doctor's answer:

This is medically referred to as "geographic tongue." Children who develop geographic tongue often have a weaker constitution and are associated with fatigue, nutritional deficiencies, poor digestive function, intestinal parasites, and a lack of B vitamins. Most children do not experience obvious discomfort symptoms, although some may have mild pain or itching or slight sensitivity to irritating substances. These symptoms can last for several years and may naturally subside with age. Generally, there is no need to be overly concerned.

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