What is Burning Tongue Syndrome

Overview

Burning tongue syndrome is an irritating and painful condition. As its name indicates, the condition is characterized by a burning sensation on some parts of the mouth. It can be likened to the sensation felt after sipping a hot cup of beverage. The condition affects more women than men, and is typical in those going through hormonal transitions such as menopause. It is also referred to as burning mouth syndrome, and goes by various medical names like glossopyrosis, glossodynia and oral galvanism. Its main symptom is pain on the tongue particularly at the back and tip areas.

Causes

Because of its high incidence among postmenopausal women, studies have indicated that the primary cause of the condition is hormonal imbalance particularly related to low estrogen levels. This condition is said to affect four out of 10 menopausal women, with the condition occurring three years before menopause and lasting up to 12 years after menopause. People who have abnormally dense taste buds and those with increased taste sensation are more prone to develop this condition than those with normal taste buds.

The female hormone estrogen is believed to play a significant part in the composition of the saliva, leading researchers to believe that the decrease in estrogen levels among women can lead to this disorder. Estrogen is also said to affect the bitter taste buds that are situated at the back area of the tongue. Lack of estrogen, therefore, may lead to women losing their bitter sense of taste.

Aside from hormonal imbalance, it is also believed that the disease is due to several conditions and ailments like diabetes, oral candida, tooth disease, inflammatory disorder, and nerve damage in the tongue. It may also be a complication of blood abnormality like anemia. Allergy to food, and exposure to toothpastes, mouthwashes and chewing gums, may also increase the risk of its development. It may also be brought about by psychological problems like depression, tobacco use, and chronic infections.

Treatment

While there is no universally acceptable and effective treatment method for burning tongue syndrome, there are some treatment options which may be given to patients. Common treatment options include the use of medications for relief of chronic pain, and patients with depression may be given antipsychotics. Alternative medicines include the use of herbs, supplements, and methods like acupuncture to bring relief to those suffering from the condition.

Changes in one’s lifestyle are also considered to be effective in treating the condition. Even simple tasks like drinking more water can help in saliva production and alleviating the discomfort brought about by the burning tongue sensation. Likewise, foods such as spicy foods and cinnamon are best avoided to prevent aggravation of the said tongue disease.

References

34 Menopause Symptoms: Burning Tongue

MayoClinic.com: Burning Mouth Syndrome