Signs of stroke tongue
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Signs of Stroke: Tongue Indicators
Tongue Deviation as a Stroke Symptom
Tongue deviation is a notable sign of stroke, often resulting from muscle weakness on one side of the tongue due to brainstem involvement. This symptom is typically associated with dysarthria (difficulty speaking) and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), which significantly impact the patient's quality of life. In a study of 300 stroke patients, 29% exhibited tongue deviation, which was always on the same side as their limb weakness. This deviation is linked to supranuclear control of the hypoglossal nerve, indicating asymmetrical innervation in many individuals.
Quantifying Tongue Deviation
Recent research has developed methods to quantify tongue deviation angles, providing a more objective measure for stroke diagnosis. The study found significant differences in tongue deviation angles between stroke patients, transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients, and normal subjects. The mean deviation angle for stroke patients was 6.9 degrees, compared to 1.4 degrees in normal subjects. This quantification method enhances the reliability of tongue deviation as a diagnostic tool for stroke.
Tongue Appearance in Stroke Diagnosis
Tongue diagnosis, a traditional method in Korean and Chinese medicine, involves observing the tongue's color, coating, and texture to identify health issues, including stroke. Studies have shown that certain tongue appearances, such as dark-red or bluish-purple tongues, are common in stroke patients. These indicators help in pattern identification and prognosis evaluation . For instance, a dark-red tongue was the most common finding in a study of 378 stroke patients, highlighting its diagnostic significance.
Clinical Significance of Tongue Changes
The dynamic changes in the tongue's appearance can provide insights into the severity and progression of a stroke. During the acute stage, thick and yellow greasy fur on the tongue is prevalent, indicating the seriousness of the condition. In the stable and recovery stages, changes in the tongue's texture and coating can help monitor disease progression and prevent relapse.
Gender and Age Differences in Tongue Indicators
Research has also identified differences in tongue indicators based on gender and age. Women are more likely to exhibit symptoms like dizziness and insomnia, along with white and thin tongue coatings. Men, on the other hand, show higher rates of teeth shaking and greasy fur. Elderly patients often have dark or red tongues and string pulses, while middle-aged individuals may show signs like irritability and scalloped tongues.
Conclusion
Tongue indicators, including deviation, color, and coating, play a crucial role in diagnosing and understanding stroke. Quantifying tongue deviation angles and observing dynamic changes in the tongue's appearance can provide valuable insights into the severity and progression of the disease. These methods, rooted in traditional medicine, offer a complementary approach to modern diagnostic techniques, enhancing the overall understanding and management of stroke.
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