G

gag reflex A rapid and intense contraction of the
pharyngeal muscles to expel material before it
enters the THROAT. Touching the back of the soft
palate activates the gag REFLEX in most people,
causing a retching action. The gag reflex is more
sensitive in some people, interfering with health
examinations of the throat or dental examinations
and treatment. HYPNOSISand BIOFEEDBACKare two
methods by which people can learn to delay or
minimize the gag reflex. Health conditions that
can activate the gag reflex include severe PHARYN-
GITIS, EPIGLOTTITIS, and profuse POSTNASAL DRIP.
Sprays to anesthetize the throat, such as to treat
relieve sore throat PAIN or for ENDOSCOPY proce-
dures, temporarily numb the nerves in the soft
palate to subdue the gag reflex. A reduced or
absent gag reflex, which can result in potentially
life-threatening ASPIRATION, may occur with STROKE
and neurologic disorders such as CEREBRAL PALSY
and PARKINSON’S DISEASE.
See also SWALLOWING DISORDERS.

gingivitis INFLAMMATIONof the gum tissue around
the TEETH. Most gingivitis is an early form of PERI-
ODONTAL DISEASE. Signs of gingivitis include painless
bleeding (spontaneous or with brushing) and
swollen gums that may be bright red or shiny.
Some people develop painless sores or ulcerations
on the gums that indicate INFECTION. Though peo-
ple may seek medical care because of the bleeding,
dentists and periodontists provide dental-based
care for gingivitis. People who have DIABETES, peo-

ple who smoke cigarettes, or use smokeless

tobacco, and women who are pregnant have

increased susceptibility for gingivitis.

See also CANKER SORE; DENTAL CARIES; ORAL

HYGIENE; SMOKING AND HEALTH.

glossitis An INFLAMMATIONof the tongue that is

typically the result of irritation, viral or bacterial

INFECTION, vitamin B deficiency, orANEMIA. Glossitis

may also develop as an opportunistic condition in

people who have IMMUNE SYSTEMdisorders.

A rare though potentially life-threaten-

ing complication of glossitis is swelling

that causes the tongue to block the air-

way. This requires emergency medical

attention.

In glossitis, the tongue often hurts, has a charac-

teristic “beefy” appearance, and has a surface that is

deep red and smooth. Swallowing and speaking

may be difficult. Most glossitis responds to corticos-

teroid mouthrinses to reduce the inflammation.

Mouthrinses with diphenhydramine may also

bring relief. A bacterial infection requires treatment

with ANTIBIOTIC MEDICATIONS; a yeast infection

requires treatment with ANTIFUNGAL MEDICATIONS.

Dietary changes or nutritional supplements are

necessary when vitamin B or iron deficiency is the

cause. Appropriate treatment typically resolves the

symptoms, and the tongue returns to normal.

See also BACTERIA; HALITOSIS; ORAL HYGIENE.

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