Burning Mouth Syndrome – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

This discomfort can affect the tongue, lips, gums, palate, throat, or the entire mouth. Despite extensive research, the exact cause of BMS remains elusive, making it a challenging condition to diagnose and treat effectively.

Symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome
The primary symptom of BMS is a burning or scalding sensation, similar to the feeling after eating something too hot. However, other symptoms can accompany this burning sensation, including:

Dry mouth
Increased thirst
Changes in taste (bitter or metallic taste)
Loss of taste
Numbness or tingling in the mouth or tongue
These symptoms can vary in intensity throughout the day and can persist for months or even years.

Causes of Burning Mouth Syndrome
The exact cause of BMS is not well understood, but it is believed to be multifactorial. Some potential causes and contributing factors include:

Nerve Damage: Damage to the nerves that control pain and taste can result in BMS.

Hormonal Changes: Women, especially those going through menopause, are more prone to BMS, suggesting a hormonal link.

Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and zinc can contribute to the condition.

Oral Conditions: Conditions like dry mouth (xerostomia), oral infections, and oral candidiasis can be linked to BMS.

Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate or trigger the symptoms.

Medical Conditions: Underlying medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and gastrointestinal issues may play a role.
Medications: Certain medications, particularly those that reduce saliva production, can lead to BMS.

Diagnosing Burning Mouth Syndrome
Diagnosing BMS can be challenging due to the lack of specific tests and the overlap of symptoms with other conditions. A thorough medical history, physical examination, and various tests are often necessary to rule out other potential causes. These tests may include blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies, allergies, and underlying medical conditions, as well as salivary flow tests and oral swabs.

Treatment Options for Burning Mouth Syndrome
Treating BMS can be equally challenging due to its complex nature. However, several approaches can help manage the symptoms:

Medications

Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications can help alleviate pain.

Antidepressants/Anxiolytics: These can help manage the psychological aspects and improve pain perception.

Clonazepam: An anti-seizure medication that has shown some efficacy in treating BMS.

Nutritional Supplements: Addressing deficiencies in vitamins and minerals like B12, iron, and zinc can provide relief.

Saliva Substitutes: Products that increase saliva production or substitute for saliva can help with dry mouth.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This can help manage stress, anxiety, and depression that may accompany or exacerbate BMS.

Alternative Therapies: Some patients find relief through acupuncture, meditation, and other complementary therapies.

Living with Burning Mouth Syndrome
Living with BMS can be challenging, but adopting certain lifestyle changes can help manage the condition:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist.

Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of spicy foods, acidic foods, and tobacco, which can worsen symptoms.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, but use mild toothpaste to avoid irritation.

Manage Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises.