Glossitis

Overview

Glossitis is an inflammatory lesion of the tongue mucosa, which can be caused by local irritation, infection, or systemic factors such as vitamin deficiency and anemia. It presents with redness, swelling, and pain of the tongue, papillary atrophy, or a burning sensation, with symptoms often worsening while eating.

Symptoms

• Redness and swelling of the tongue
• Tongue pain
• Reduced sense of taste
• Atrophy of tongue papillae
• Burning sensation

Treatment

Remove local irritation and treat the systemic cause, supplement the relevant vitamins and trace elements, and manage pain symptomatically.

Dietary advice

Eat warm, soft, light foods, supplement B vitamins and iron, and avoid spicy and hot foods.