<s>[INST] My tongue looks awful - it is black and discoloured. This has been an ongoing problem and it s actually getting worse! I ve visited my GP tonight who, other than prescribing an oral gel (Daktarin), says that there is no other treatment. I m happy to try the Daktarin in case there is any oral thrush present, but I m so embarrassed about it - I dont want to laugh or smile because my tongue looks absolutely dreadful. I have taken background dose of antibiotics - Erythromycin 500mg twice per day, for a skin condition for about 13 - 15 years now, and I know these can contribute to the cause. Can you advise of any treatments please? Someone said fresh pineapple works as it contains salycilic acid? [/INST] Thanks for your query, I have gone through your query. The discoloration over the tongue can occur secondary to the food debris, or it can occur secondary to hypertrophy of the papilla or black hairy tongue or hairy leukoplakia. Consult an oral physician and get it evaluated to rule out these things. If it is because of the deposits and hypertrophy of the papillae, you need to follow thorough tongue brushing. If it is hairy tongue or leukoplakia, you can get it surgically removed or with the help of lasers. Captain will not help when there is no candida infection. I hope my answer will help you, take care. </s>