Brief Answer:
Please provide a photo if possible and some extra information

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thank you for using HCM to post your question.

What do you mean with a brown tongue? Can you upload a photo please?

It can happen to change color after eating a certain food...for example eating carrots changes it partially into orange color, spinach into green and so on. Can you remember if you have eaten something that might have done that?

Also, are you allergic of anything? Sometimes allergy from a food may cause swollen tongue, brown color (due to swelling) and swelling. Are you feeling swelling as well? Or tingling sensation?

Can you tell me if you have any other symptoms? For how long did you notice it?
Have you noticed any blood or phlegm with color? Do you have gastric/stomach problems?
Blood from teeth may cause it too, if you have any teeth or problem with the bleeding gums.

Thank you in advance for the extra information. Looking forward to your follow up question.

Regards,
Dr.Papaqako

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Brief Answer:
Hairy tongue.

Detailed Answer:
Hello again,

Thank you for the photo. This is much clear now- it is called hairy tongue.

In general, it is something that does not appear acutely, but I am sure you have had it like that for some time. It is caused due to bacteria or yeast growth, but may also have many other causes. I'm going to mention some below. You can think if it is applied to you, because since, I don't know your past history, I am just presuming may be one of these as the causative factor-

-- The most common cause it is a yeast infection or glossitis (inflammation of the tongue), but the fact that you feel fine, make me think that it is not the case.
-- Dehydration: try to drink plenty of fluids if you don't do that.
-- Cigarette smoking or drinking coffee or tea.
-- Oral hygiene: Please keep in mind to brush your tongue and cheeks as well when you wash your teeth. Also, you can use a mouthwash, but at the same time mouthwashes can cause it also (those which contain peroxide, witch XXXXXXX or menthol)
-- Some medications, like Pepto-Bismol or some antibiotics.

If any of the above applies, then let me know. Some are general advises, so if you are a healthy person, not using medications- then for sure the other suggestions will help.

I hope I have answered your question and you have understood it. If you need more clarification, please feel free to write back.

Regards

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Brief Answer:
No it is not contagious

Detailed Answer:
Hello again,

Here it is our diagnoses!

It can be self limited, but if you have sores in your tongue then you can use an oral antifungal cream- for example econazole 1% for 1-2 weeks.

It is awesome that you are trying to quit smoking.

It is not contagious, don't worry about it.

Hope this is helpful.
If no more questions please don't forget to close the answer.

Take care.

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