Symptom 11. Swollen Tongue: Anemia’s Uncomfortable Oral Impact
The oral symptoms of severe anemia can sometimes be overlooked, but they’re just as indicative as any other. A swollen tongue or glossitis is one such sign of anemia. The tongue may become inflamed and appear unnaturally smooth due to the disappearance of small nodules called papillae.
This inflammation and swelling can cause discomfort, leading to difficulties in eating and speaking. When eating becomes a painful task, it can exacerbate the condition by leading to inadequate nutritional intake, which is critical in the production of new red blood cells.
Glossitis is a direct result of the lack of oxygen reaching the cells of the tongue, leading to inflammation and swelling. When the body is deficient in red blood cells, oxygen transportation becomes inefficient, affecting every cell in the body, including those in the tongue.
While it’s an uncomfortable symptom, the good news is that it can be alleviated with appropriate treatment for anemia. Once the body starts producing adequate red blood cells and oxygen supply is restored, glossitis usually resolves, bringing much-needed relief to patients.
But until then, it’s essential not to ignore this symptom. The tongue’s health often reflects the body’s overall health. Changes such as swelling or inflammation are indicators that something is amiss, like severe anemia in this case. (11)
