Burning Mouth Syndrome by Ray Sahelian, M.D.

It's a burning sensation that gradually spreads across the tongue through the course of the day, and it has a medical name: glossopyrosis, or more commonly, burning mouth syndrome. The condition can be frustrating to treat, but usually some relief can be found. Burning Mouth Syndrome is most common in people over 60, and occurs more frequently in women than in men. It can last for weeks or even years.

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Cause of Burning Mouth Syndrome
Most often, it seems, multiple factors play a role in producing burning mouth syndrome symptoms. Disease, medications or nutritional deficiencies can all be involved, but often no single cause can be pinpointed. Medical conditions linked to burning mouth syndrome include Sjogren's syndrome, diabetes and underactive thyroid, while deficiencies in iron, zinc, folate and some B vitamins have also been linked to the condition. Stress and anxiety can also be a factor.

Burning Mouth Syndrome Symptom

Pain, tingling or numbness may be felt in the throat, lips, gums or palate as well as the tongue, and sensations can involve a metallic taste in the mouth.

Burning Mouth Syndrome Treatment
Symptoms of burning mouth syndrome can usually be improved but treatment may be complex. If dry mouth accompanies the syndrome, it can be treated with medications that stimulate saliva flow, saliva substitutes, drinking water or even chewing gum. Treatment for oral yeast infection, or thrush, may also be helpful even if such an infection isn't apparent. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and unflavored toothpaste, and staying away from alcohol-based mouthwash, also is helpful. Since some medications, such as ACE inhibitors used to treat high blood pressure, can cause dry mouth or mouth pain, switching drugs may help, as can treating any underlying nutritional deficiencies.

Burning mouth questions
Q. Is alpha lipoic acid helpful in burning mouth syndrome?
   A. Perhaps in some cases. See alpha lipoic acid for more info.

Q. I have burning mouth syndrome now for five months I have tried many things to gain relief. Nothing has been successful, Is there any herb or supplement that has helped people with this condition and symptoms.
   A. The only natural supplement we have seen any good research on is alpha lipoic acid, as of October 2007.