Causes and risk factors:
The exact cause of burning mouth syndrome is not known. One of the hypotheses suggests that it is caused due to some dysfunction of the taste and sensory nerves of the nervous system. This idiopathic burning of mouth is called as primary burning mouth syndrome. Burning mouth can also be caused due to other underlying cause. It is called as secondary burning mouth syndrome. Certain conditions which can cause burning sensation in mouth are thyroid diseases, dry mouth, and nutritional deficiencies like zinc, iron or folate, certain food allergies, or as an adverse effect of certain medications. Garstro-esophagal reflux diseases or certain emotional factors like stress, anxiety also leads to burning mouth syndrome.
Clinical presentations:
Burning sensation in mouth is the hallmark of this syndrome. The patients may also complaint of dryness or metallic or bitter taste in the mouth, increased thirst can be other associated symptom.
Diagnosis and investigations:
Generally there is no specific investigation for the burning mouth syndrome. Symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the doctor will help to confirm the diagnosis. Certain investigations which can be advised are routine blood test, allergy test, oral cultures; salivary measurement test can also be done.
Treatment:
If there persist some underlying cause then treatment of the underlying diseases is of prime importance. Counseling and behavioral cognitive therapy has found to be effective. No specific medication for the burning mouth syndrome has yet found be beneficial. Avoidance of tobacco, astringents and spicy food. Plenty of oral fluids. Bland diet may be helpful. Zinc and b- complex supplements may help.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating acromegaly. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms.
