smooth, sore tongue

[brettspike]

Three years ago I had Bell's Palsy.  My doctor treated me with a high dose of Prednisone for 7 days.  After that, I noticed that my tongue was smooth with no coating and very sensitive to salt, acidic fruits, spices, and even ketchup because of the vinegar.  I have been to 2 doctors and my family dentist.  None of them can diagnose the problem.  I have tried:  iron tablets, sensitive toothpaste, mild non-alcohol mouthwashes, etc.  Nothing has worked.  It is not painful until I eat a food that irritates it, then it ruins my meal and hurts for about 10 minutes or so.  Could the steroid have caused this?  Is there something I am missing?  Thanks for your help

[mammo]

Sorry...you said this in your first post, my mistake.  I read that a deficiency in B vitamins and other nutrients can cause this, and you say you have tried iron tablets.  Was it B-Complex?  I would opt to have some blood work done to check for deficiencies.

[brettspike]

Yes, I have seen 2 doctors and my family dentist.  it really doesn't interfere with my life, just very frustrating when I am out somewhere and my food is a little too spicy or salty, can't eat it.  deb

[mammo]

Have you seen your dentist and/or doctor for this?  There are many causes, before you spend all that money on a specialist check with your dentist first.  In the meantime I would do nothing.

[scottma]

Seeing an orofacial pain specialist or neurologist is advised. In the mean time, nutritional supplement, alpha-lipoic acid may be woth a try.