Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic pain disorder characterized by a burning sensation in the mouth, tongue, lips, or throat without any visible signs of oral disease or pathology.

Definition and Diagnosis

BMS is defined as a persistent, intraoral burning sensation, with or without oral mucosal changes, in the absence of any identifiable cause. The diagnosis of BMS is primarily based on the patient's symptoms and medical history, as well as the exclusion of other possible causes of oral pain.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of BMS is a burning sensation in the mouth, which can be constant or intermittent. Other symptoms may include:

• Dryness or soreness of the mouth
• Taste changes or metallic taste
• Numbness or tingling of the tongue or lips
• Bitter or sour taste
• Increased sensitivity to spicy or acidic foods and drinks

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of BMS is often unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:

• Hormonal changes, particularly in postmenopausal women
• Nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin B12 or iron deficiency
• Dry mouth (xerostomia) due to medication, radiation therapy, or other conditions
• Oral infections, such as candidiasis or herpes simplex
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Psychological factors, such as anxiety, depression, or stress

Treatment and Management

Treatment for BMS typically focuses on relieving symptoms and addressing any underlying conditions. This may include:

• Topical anesthetics or pain relievers to reduce discomfort
• Saliva substitutes or stimulants to alleviate dry mouth
• Nutritional supplements, such as vitamin B12 or iron, if deficiencies are present
• Antifungal or antiviral medications for oral infections
• Psychological counseling or therapy to address underlying stress or anxiety
• Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding spicy or acidic foods and drinks, and practicing good oral hygiene

Prognosis and Complications

BMS can be a chronic condition, and symptoms may persist for months or years. In some cases, BMS can lead to complications, such as:

• Malnutrition due to difficulty eating or swallowing
• Weight loss or gain
• Sleep disturbances
• Depression or anxiety
• Reduced quality of life