I was interested to read last week's query regarding taste problems. Not only do I have a metallic taste in my mouth, but I also have a burning sensation of my tongue, gums and lips. What is causing this?
Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a complex problem that can cause multiple symptoms. The condition is poorly understood, mainly because there appears to be a wide variety of triggers for the problem. These can include oral thrush, irritation, nerve damage, nutritional deficiencies or it may be a side effect of medications, such as ACE inhibitors commonly used to control high blood pressure.
While some endocrine disorders are thought to be implicated in its development, in others, the condition may have a psychological basis. It can develop as a reaction to toothpastes or mouth washes or a sensitivity to certain foods or preservatives such as sorbic acid and benzoic acid. Iron and vitamin deficiencies (B12, folic acid and B complex) are also thought to cause BMS in some.
Is the condition more common in females?
Yet again, women pull the short straw, with seven times more developing the condition than men. It is more common after the menopause.
Although rarely present when I wake up, as the day progresses, my symptoms get worse.
Symptoms of BMS vary in location, duration and timing. The sensation of burning can involve the lips, tongue, gums, palate and throat. Other symptoms may include a sore or dry mouth, metallic or bitter taste or a tingling /numbness in the mouth or on the tongue. Symptoms can develop progressively throughout the day or they can wax and wane. Some sufferers going through periods when the condition is severe but also experience periods when they have no symptoms at all.
Any advice regarding treatment?
Although the condition is relatively easy to diagnose, it can be difficult to treat. Finding the trigger is the first step. Frequent sips of water or chewing gum may help to keep the mouth moist. Avoid alcohol mouthwashes or strong toothpastes and check food labelling for the presence of preservatives that may contribute to the problem. Treatment with antidepressant or anti-epilepsy drugs may help some with severe symptoms. If the problem is caused by your current medications, then your doctor may advise a substitute to see if this helps your symptoms abate.