People are warned that a smooth-looking or sore tongue could be the sign of a vitamin deficiency that needs to be treated "as soon as possible".
The NHS states that there are many symptoms for vitamin B12 deficiency and it is important to have it treated. These signs include ones that might sound surprising like a sore or red tongue.
“Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia can cause a wide range of symptoms. These usually develop gradually, but can worsen if the condition goes untreated,” says the NHS. “Most symptoms are the same whether they are caused by either folate deficiency or vitamin B12 deficiency.”
People are advised to go and see a doctor if you have the symptoms and a blood test can give a diagnosis. But there can be “permanent damage” if the condition is not treated.
The tongue can become inflamed by the deficiency, while it may also feel smooth as the taste buds are stretched out and disappear. At the same time you may be affected by mouth ulcers.
“Glossitis is a term used to describe an inflamed tongue,” said nutritionist Helen West. “If you have glossitis, your tongue changes colour and shape, making it painful, red and swollen. The inflammation can also make your tongue look smooth, as all the tiny bumps on your tongue that contain your taste buds stretch out and disappear.
“As well as being painful, glossitis can change the way you eat and speak. Studies have shown that a swollen and inflamed tongue that has long straight lesions on it could be an early sign of vitamin B12 deficiency.”
