A sore or smooth tongue might be a sign of a vitamin deficiency, and it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible, according to the NHS. Vitamin B12 deficiency, as well as folate deficiency, can cause a range of symptoms that may worsen if left untreated. These symptoms include a sore or red tongue. If you experience these symptoms, it is advised to see a doctor, as a blood test can help diagnose the deficiency. Failure to treat the condition promptly can lead to permanent damage.
Glossitis, which refers to an inflamed tongue, is commonly associated with vitamin deficiencies. The condition can cause changes in tongue color and shape, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. Glossitis can also result in a smooth tongue, as the tiny bumps that contain taste buds stretch out and disappear. Studies suggest that a swollen and inflamed tongue with straight lesions could be an early indication of vitamin B12 deficiency. This condition can also affect eating and speaking.
The symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency are diverse and can include rapid breathing, headaches, indigestion, loss of appetite, palpitations, vision problems, weakness or fatigue, diarrhea, and cognitive changes. Getting an insufficient amount of vitamin B12 in the diet, particularly from sources such as meat, fish, and dairy products, can cause deficiency. Individuals following a vegan diet are especially at risk if they do not take supplements. Intestinal conditions like Crohn’s disease that lead to inflammation in the digestive system can also contribute to a deficiency.
It is crucial to diagnose and treat vitamin B12 deficiency as soon as possible. Symptoms and blood test results are often used to make a diagnosis. Although many symptoms improve with treatment, some problems caused by the deficiency can be irreversible if left untreated. The longer the deficiency goes untreated, the higher the risk of permanent damage.
Sources: NHS
