HomeAnswersInternal Medicinesore tongueI have had a sore tongue for two years. Please help.

What can be done to resolve a sore tongue?

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Published At March 22, 2024
Reviewed AtMarch 22, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 31-year-old male. I do not smoke or drink alcohol. I started to develop a sore tongue around two years ago. The pain is not continuous. I noticed this over two years ago, and my tongue has not changed its appearance. I had a neck ultrasound and a throat endoscopy that came back clear. I visited my doctor recently, who examined my tongue and told me this is likely due to a vitamin deficiency, stress, or dehydration. I have not gotten sick, and I have had unintentional weight loss or night sweats. I can speak, eat, and drink fine. Also, my wisdom tooth on the right side has grown sideways, and food gets stuck and irritates my tongue. My known medical conditions include irritable bowel syndrome. My stools are always loose. I am also overweight. I also get some numbness in my hands and feet at times. I am looking for a second opinion. Please help.

Thank you.

Hi,

I appreciate that you have chosen icliniq.com for your medical needs.

I am here to give you the best care possible.

A sore tongue can have various causes, including vitamin deficiencies, stress, dehydration, oral hygiene issues, and mechanical irritation. Your doctor's suggestion of vitamin deficiency, stress, and hydration as potential causes is reasonable, as these factors can contribute to oral health problems. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, can also help alleviate symptoms.

The specific medication for treating severe vitamin deficiencies depends on the particular vitamin that is deficient. Here are some common examples:

1. Vitamin B12 deficiency: In cases of severe vitamin B12 deficiency, the usual treatment is vitamin B12 injections or high-dose oral supplements. These supplements can help replenish vitamin B12 levels in the body.

2. Iron deficiency: Iron deficiency is not strictly a vitamin deficiency, but it is a common nutritional deficiency that can cause anemia. Iron supplements, either in the form of ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, or other iron preparations, are often prescribed to treat iron deficiency anemia.

3. Vitamin D deficiency: Vitamin D deficiency is typically treated with vitamin D supplements. The specific dosage and form of vitamin D supplement may vary depending on the severity of the deficiency and individual factors. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you.

4. Vitamin C deficiency: Severe vitamin C deficiency, also known as scurvy, may require high-dose vitamin C supplements to correct the deficiency. This can be achieved through oral supplements or, in severe cases, through intravenous administration.

I suggest starting a good multivitamin if not taking it already. It is important to note that the appropriate treatment for vitamin deficiencies should be determined by a healthcare professional based on your specific condition, including the severity of the deficiency, your overall health, and any underlying medical conditions. They will be able to provide you with personalized recommendations and prescribe the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment. In addition to medication, it is also important to address the underlying causes of vitamin deficiencies. This may involve making dietary changes, improving nutrient absorption, or addressing specific health conditions that contribute to the deficiencies.

Always consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis, guidance, and treatment tailored to your individual needs. They will be able to evaluate your specific situation and provide you with the most appropriate course of action.

The sideways growth of your wisdom tooth and the associated irritation may be contributing to the discomfort and soreness of your tongue. Food getting stuck in that area can cause local inflammation and irritation. In such cases, it is often recommended to have the wisdom tooth evaluated by a dentist, who can determine if extraction or other interventions are necessary.

The numbness in your hands and feet could be unrelated to your tongue symptoms. Numbness and tingling in the extremities can be caused by various factors, including nerve compression, vitamin deficiencies (such as vitamin B12 deficiency), poor circulation, or even certain medical conditions. It may be helpful to discuss this symptom with your doctor and possibly undergo further evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

Given your history of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and loose stools, it is worth mentioning this to your doctor as well. Sometimes, gastrointestinal conditions can be associated with oral health problems and vitamin deficiencies. Hence, it is important to address both aspects together.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you have further queries.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vandana Andrews
Dr. Vandana Andrews

General Practitioner

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