Question:
Has anyone ever gotten a black coloring on their tongue?

I am 9 days post-op and I noticed that the top of my tongue is black. I know that sounds weird, but it's true. It is kind of thick and bumpy and dark black with red/pink areas. I called the Dr. and he said to wait 72 hrs. I'm suposed to call back if it doesn't go away. It's really bothering me. I also feel real queazy today? Does someone know what this could be? I've followed my post-op instructions to the letter.    — [Anonymous] (posted on February 9, 2001)

February 9, 2001
sounds like Thrush... this you could have gotten from the antibiotics in the hospital they will give you something to clear it up kind of like a yeast infection in the mouth I think remember I am not a medical person just guessing
   — Kathleen M.

February 10, 2001
Yes, I have read where antibiotics can cause this, as well as smoking,radiation, frequent use of mouthwashes and antacids. The usual recommended treatment is to eliminate possible causal factors, and scrape (or brush with a toothbrush) your tongue on a regular basis.
   — [Anonymous]

February 12, 2001
I found that many people get it from taking pepto bismol. Another question can be about the vitamins your chewing, do they contain iron??? With thrush,I was used to it being light colored and it can be gently scraped off then leaves the tongue red and very sore. Before using any over the counter med to treat it see your doctor.
   — Helen B.