Tongue Problem Treatment in India

Vivaan Das, a 28-year-old software engineer...

Vivaan Das, a 28-year-old software engineer from a close-knit Bengali family, had always been proud of his love for spicy food. Over the past four months, however, he developed a persistent, painful burning sensation on his tongue, especially after eating. The discomfort became constant, and he noticed strange, smooth red patches appearing on its surface. It began to affect his sleep and his enjoyment of meals, a core part of his family and social life. His primary care physician in Internal Medicine, Dr. Chen, examined him and, concerned about the possibility of a nutritional deficiency or an autoimmune condition like geographic tongue or burning mouth syndrome, recommended a detailed clinical assessment and possibly a biopsy. During the appointment, Dr. Chen performed a thorough oral exam, took a detailed history of his diet and stress levels, and ordered blood tests to check for deficiencies in iron, B12, and folate. The experience was anxiety-inducing for Vivaan, who feared a serious diagnosis. The blood draw was quick, and Dr. Chen's calm, explanatory manner was reassuring. The tests revealed a significant vitamin B12 deficiency, likely linked to his predominantly vegetarian diet. After a course of B12 supplements and dietary adjustments suggested by a nutritionist, the burning sensation subsided within three weeks, and the appearance of his tongue normalized. Emotionally, Vivaan moved from fear and frustration, worrying it was something untreatable, to immense relief and empowerment. He now manages his diet proactively and feels grateful for a simple, corrective solution.