Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is chronic pain, discomfort and burning sensation of oralmucosa . It is characterised by the absence of lesions and is not caused by any other condition or disease. As per the epidemiological trends observed in the developed countries upto 15 % of the population suffers with the disease.
Women are more likely to suffer as compared to men, usually at menopausal or postmenopausal age. BMS is a neuropathic disorder with central changes characterised by burning pain mostly bilateral on the tongue, lips, palate and occasionally pharynx. The pain is characterised by burning tingling discomfort of fluctuating intensity and variable symptoms. The onset is usually spontaneous. Some of the other changes seen in this disease are changes in taste perception, salivary changes and accompanying anxiety traits. In burning mouth syndrome treatment, Diagnosis is established with meticulous history taking and ruling out other local and systemic reasons.
Diagnostic tests conducted to aid the same are various types of blood tests and microbial tests. Certain neurologic imaging and diagnostic tests may also be required in burning mouth syndrome. treatment includes neuropathic pain drugs and other scientific evidence-based behavioural techniques used for pain management.
Burning mouth syndrome is a tricky and poorly-understood condition that affects the mouth. Abbreviated as BMS, it is a fairly common health condition in which the individual experiences.
A burning sensation in the mouth without any obvious reason. It can occur suddenly, periodically or develop gradually over a period of time. It is commonly seen in elderly women than men.
What is Burning Mouth Syndrome?
Burning mouth syndrome is described as a painful or burning sensation in the tongue, lips, or palate which leads to an overall discomfort in the mouth without any underlying medical or dental reasons.
There are two types of BMS- primary BMS and secondary BMS. Primary BMS is diagnosed when there is no identifiable illness responsible for the condition. Secondary BMS occurs as a result of other health conditions and the reasons are identifiable.
Symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome
The symptoms of burning mouth syndrome vary from person to person in its nature and severity. It can last for a longer period of time in some people. Some of the common symptoms are:
● A pain in the mouth characterized by burning or scalding sensation
● A feeling of numbness or tingling in the mouth
● Altered taste in the mouth
● Dry mouth
Causes of Burning Mouth Syndrome
The common reasons for secondary BMS are:
● Allergic reaction to certain foods or dental-work substances
● Endocrine disorders like hyperthyroidism, diabetes etc
● Nutritional deficiency like lack of zinc, iron, Vitamin B12, etc.
● Acid reflux
● Psychological issues like depression, anxiety, stress etc.
● Hormonal changes due to menopause or other factors
● Side-effects of medications, especially those taken for hypertension
● Certain oral habits like bruxism, overuse of mouth-washes, overbrushing the tongue etc.
● Infection in the mouth
● Treatments for diseases like cancer
Burning Mouth Syndrome Treatment
To get relief from secondary BMS, it is necessary to treat the underlying health condition. If it is primary BMS, it will resolve on its own. However, the following methods are helpful to get relief from the discomforts caused by BMS.
● Sip cold drinks throughout the day to bring down the burning sensation
● Suck ice chips to control burning feeling
● Say no to alcoholic beverages and smoking
● Avoid excessive stress and practice relaxation techniques
● Use a toothpaste that is ideal for sensitive mouth
● Avoid carbonated beverages, spicy and acidic foods, tobacco etc.
● Avoid acidic fruits like orange, lemon, etc.
The burning mouth syndrome does not lead to further complications. However, it should be treated to avoid the irritation and pain which may recur. You can effectively manage the symptoms of burning mouth syndrome with proper treatment.
At PCI our orofacial pain management consultants are a pioneer in treating such complicated pain conditions. The appointment can be booked by emailing us or calling us on +91-31908890.
