Q: I am a 67 years old male and have developed a crack on the left side of my tongue. The crack is hardly visible but it pains a lot, especially when I eat anything spicy. What can be the reason for this?

A:Symptoms seem to be of glossitis, caused by vitamin & zinc deficiency, and gastric eosophageal reflux. Also, irritants in the form of spices and tobacco can cause it.