Your tongue can tell you a lot about your health. Normally, it should be pink and moist, but sometimes it develops a yellow coating. While this can be harmless—like from poor oral hygiene or certain foods—it may also signal deeper health issues that shouldn’t be ignored.
1. Liver or Gallbladder Problems
A yellow tongue may point to issues with the liver or gallbladder, such as jaundice or bile flow obstruction. This happens when the body can’t process bilirubin properly, leading to a yellow tint not only on the skin and eyes but also on the tongue.
2. Gastritis or Digestive Disorders
Digestive imbalances, especially gastritis or acid reflux, can cause a yellow coating on the tongue. Excess stomach acid or infection (like H. pylori) may show up as discoloration.
3. Oral Thrush or Fungal Infections
Though oral thrush is usually white, in its early stages or when mixed with bacteria, it may appear yellow. It can also cause bad breath and discomfort when eating.
4. Respiratory or Throat Infections
Bacterial infections in the throat, tonsils, or sinuses sometimes leave a yellow coating on the tongue. This is often accompanied by bad breath, sore throat, or fever.
