Burning Mouth Syndrome

What is burning mouth syndrome?

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) or scalded mouth syndrome is a condition where a person feels a severe burning sensation on the tongue, palate, and lips.

It is a rare condition and the symptoms and causes vary largely from patient to patient.

What are its main signs and symptoms?

The main signs and symptoms of burning mouth syndrome are:

•  A burning sensation on the tongue, which can be painful and feel like a scald injury.
• Sipping on particular beverages like hot tea, or acidic drinks can aggravate the condition.
• A person may also have a burning sensation on the lips or corner of the mouth.
• Eating is difficult since taste perception is altered.
• Rarely, a patient may also complain of numbness in the mouth.

What are its main causes?

The main causes of BMS include:

• Primary BMS is not linked to any specific condition or cause. Its cause is often idiopathic, or unknown.
• Secondary BMS is because of a particular agent, or an underlying disease.
  • Mouth infections like candida, or ulcers in the mouth can cause burning sensation.
  • Xerostomia or dry mouth occurs when saliva production is less. Dryness of the mouth can also lead to BMS.
  • People who have diabetes or thyroid disorders often complain of burning mouth. The hormonal imbalance causes xerostomia, which leads to the burning sensation.
  • Gastric conditions like acid reflux or GERD can also cause burning mouth syndrome.
  • Dentures made of acrylic may have sharp edges which can cause ulcers and burns on the cheek lining or floor of the mouth.

How is it diagnosed and treated?

• Diagnosis of BMS is extremely easy based on the patient’s symptoms and physical examination. However, some tests can be carried out to determine the cause.
  • Blood investigations for diabetes, thyroid diseases.
  • Saliva examination for the quantity and quality of saliva.

BMS treatment includes:

• Primary burning mouth syndrome not linked to any underlying cause is treated by relieving the burning sensation. For this, it is essential to make certain dietary changes such as: 
  • Avoid eating spicy food, acidic food, and irritants. Smoking and alcohol can also worsen the symptoms, so, avoid them
  • Eat a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.
• The treatment of secondary burning mouth syndrome involves identifying the cause.
  • Acid reflux is controlled by dietary modifications and antacid tablets.
  • Hormonal disorders are controlled by insulin, medicines, and exercises.
  • Fungal medicines and antibiotics are effective in case of infections.
• Home care includes chewing on ice chips, drinking cold beverages or placing aloe vera extract over the affected area.

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