Burning Mouth Syndrome is a condition where you feel a burning or hot sensation in the mouth but this may also be localised to the lips or tongue. This hot or burning sensation may be continuous or intermittent.

Burning Mouth Syndrome symptoms may also be accompanied with a dry mouth, and/or an unpleasant taste. Some people may also experience numbness. This burning sensation often increases when talking, eating spicy foods and at times of stress.

Who gets Burning Mouth Syndrome?

According to current research, between 0.5% and almost 10% of the population may be affected, either for a short period of time or on an ongoing basis, and the condition seems to be more common in women than men.

What are the causes for Burning Mouth Syndrome?

We do not fully understand the causes of Burning Mouth Syndrome. It is thought that this condition is possibly caused by the malfunctioning of the nerves which may be linked to a deficiency in vitamin B12 particularly in people over the age of 50 since vitamin B12 absorption is compromised as we age.

We also know that if affects women more than men and particularly women going through the menopause so there is definitely a hormonal connection. We know that a lack of oestrogen causes dryness in the body which many menopausal women experience and likewise this drop in oestrogen may be responsible for lower saliva production as well as the burning sensation.

Burning Mouth Syndrome symptoms

Aside from the hot or burning sensation in the mouth, lips and/or tongue, we know that the effects of these symptoms, especially if linked to neuropathic pain, can alter the production of other hormones leading to poor sleeping pattern, fatigue, and anxiety.

Burning Mouth Syndrome treatments

The most important point to remember is that this condition is long term and may take years before it disappears however you can use products and supplements to alleviate this syndrome.

Conventional treatments include nerve relaxant medications, and these may not be without side effects.

I think it is important to get quick temporary relief from the use of Gengigel Oral Spray. This alcohol-free mouth spray is normally recommended for gum disorders but works very effectively for Burning Mouth Syndrome. It contains hyaluronic acid with soothing xylitol to help comfort the mouth and can be used as often as is necessary.

If you are experiencing a dry mouth, then please use Hylamints Lozenges. These dry mouth treatment lozenges contain hyaluronic acid, slippery elm and other herbs to encourage moisture balance in the mouth and to keep the mouth moist. Drink plenty of water to keep the body hydrated.

Vitamin B12’s benefits are widespread but from the point of view of this concern, Vitamin B12 works to maintain normal nerve growth as well as function. It is this property that may be invaluable in the treatment of Burning Mouth Syndrome. B12 Elite by Life Extension provides two highly absorbable source of vitamin B12 for total body protection.

In some cases, Burning Mouth Syndrome may be associated with preservatives used in toothpastes. If burning worsens after brushing your teeth, then change your toothpaste to one such as Green People’s Fresh Mint Toothpaste with Fluoride.

Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol, alcohol beverages, tobacco, hot, spicy foods and products high in acids such as citrus fruits and juices.

There are many strategies for the treatment of Burning Mouth Syndrome which also include relaxation and yoga. If you can find ways of incorporating treatments alongside therapies to cope with the pain then there is no reason why you cannot carry out your daily activities.

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