Vitamin Deficiency and Anemia
If you’ve noticed a soreness on your tongue, it could be a sign of an underlying condition. Some of the most common causes are vitamin deficiencies and anemia.
Vitamin deficiency can cause a sore tongue with cracks or sores, often white, red, or brown. Iron deficiency is the main culprit in anemia, which results in pale white patches on the tongue that usually appear between the grooves. Other symptoms of both conditions include fatigue, irritability, and slower cognitive function.
A simple blood test can determine whether you’re suffering from either condition. If you are, various treatments are available to address them. For example, treatment for vitamin deficiency may involve eating more foods that contain the missing nutrient or taking supplements to treat the deficiency. Doctors will likely treat anemia through blood transfusions for severe cases, but other options might include changing your diet to increase iron absorption or daily iron supplements.
If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth or have questions about possible causes of a sore tongue, it’s always best to consult with a doctor as soon as possible.
