Symptoms on the tongue warning of a lack of vitamin B12

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can be difficult to identify, as they may develop very slowly over a long period of time.

Vitamin B12 is an important component of a healthy body, as it is necessary for making red blood cells.

And signs of deficiency can develop very slowly, so diagnosing the condition can be difficult.

Some patients may find that their tongue appears smoother than they used to, and according to the WebMD medical website, it is caused by a condition known as glossitis, which has been linked to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Your tongue may also appear shinier than usual, and you may feel excruciating pain.

The medical site said: "Smooth tongue - our doctor might call it atrophic glossitis. Small bumps on your tongue, called papillae, begin to fade. This makes it appear smooth and shiny. It can be caused by infections, medications, and other conditions as well."

But just because your tongue looks swollen, it doesn't necessarily mean that you have a deficiency in vitamin B12.

It could be caused by an allergic reaction or low iron levels, or even a cut or burn on your tongue.

In most cases, glossitis resolves on its own over time and does not require any treatment.

The condition is more likely to be caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency, if it is accompanied by any of the more common symptoms.

Other symptoms of B12 deficiency may include difficulty walking, disturbances in vision, and mouth ulcers.

The best sources of vitamin B12 include beef, liver, dairy products, eggs, and salmon.