Iron deficiency symptoms in the mouth
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Common Oral Symptoms of Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency often leads to several noticeable symptoms in the mouth. The most frequently reported oral manifestations include atrophic glossitis (smooth, shiny, and inflamed tongue), angular cheilitis (cracks or sores at the corners of the mouth), burning mouth sensation, oral mucosa atrophy, and tenderness or soreness in the mouth. These symptoms are significantly more common in people with iron deficiency anemia compared to healthy individuals, and their severity often increases with the degree of iron deficiency 14710.
Specific Oral Lesions and Conditions Linked to Iron Deficiency
Atrophic glossitis and angular cheilitis are particularly associated with iron deficiency anemia. Other oral conditions that may appear include recurrent aphthous ulcers, burning mouth syndrome, and pale oral mucosa. In some cases, iron deficiency can also be linked to more serious conditions such as Plummer-Vinson syndrome, which is characterized by burning mouth and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) 12358.
Increased Risk of Oral Infections
Iron deficiency is associated with a higher prevalence of oral infections, especially those caused by Candida species. Patients with iron deficiency often experience candidal infections such as pseudomembranous candidosis, erythematous candidosis, and median rhomboid glossitis. These infections can present as sore mouth, redness, and white patches, and are more likely to occur alongside other oral symptoms of iron deficiency 89.
Gender and Prevalence Patterns
Females are more likely to experience oral symptoms related to iron deficiency than males. Studies consistently show a higher prevalence of iron deficiency and its oral manifestations in women, particularly those of reproductive age 1610.
Importance of Early Detection
Oral symptoms may be the earliest signs of iron deficiency anemia, sometimes appearing before other systemic symptoms like fatigue or pallor. Dentists and oral health professionals play a crucial role in identifying these early signs, which can prompt further investigation and treatment of underlying iron deficiency 1510.
Conclusion
Iron deficiency can cause a range of symptoms in the mouth, including atrophic glossitis, angular cheilitis, burning mouth, oral mucosa atrophy, and increased susceptibility to oral infections. These symptoms are more common and severe in individuals with iron deficiency anemia, especially women. Recognizing these oral signs is important for early diagnosis and management of iron deficiency.
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