Mouth And Teeth / Question
Published: June 3, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have yellow patches on my tongue, and it's peeling. Is it mono? And can in hurt my fetus?
Signed: Yellow Patches On My Tounge
Dear Yellow Patches On My Tounge,
TeenHealthFX can understand your need for concern, but it possible to diagnose you over the Internet. It is important (especially since your question implies that you are pregnant) that you have these yellow patches examined by a physician as soon as possible. If you do not have a physician, and live in northern NJ, call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971-6475 or your local teen health center for an appointment.
Without conducting a thorough examination it is difficult to determine the causes of these yellow patches, but it is possible that it is Candidiasis, or a yeast infection which can be common during pregnancy or times of lowered immune system function. Mononucleosis (more commonly referred to as Mono) is a disease that causes symptoms such as fatigue, sore throat, enlarged tonsils, and fever. Yellow patches in the mouth are not often signs of Mono, but you can discuss this possibility during your visit to a healthcare professional.
Again, TeenHealthFX is concerned about you because you mentioned possible pregnancy. If you are pregnant and have not seen a medical professional, it is definitely time to. Call a teen health center or go to your doctor. A medical professional can go over your pregnancy options with you and discuss what your next steps should be.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Teen girls ages 15-19 have the highest Gonorrhea rate of any age group.
