Glossodynia, or burning mouth syndrome, causes a burning sensation in the mouth and can be triggered by various factors. It can be primary or secondary, and treatment depends on the individual’s overall health. Diagnosis involves ruling out other conditions, and treatment may involve a combination of therapies. Complications include mood changes, insomnia, and loss of appetite.
Glossodynia, also known as burning mouth syndrome (BMS), is a medical condition characterized by a burning, burning sensation that affects the inside of the mouth. BMS can cause tongue pain or discomfort and irritation affecting the gums, palate, cheeks, or lips. Glossodynia can be triggered by a variety of factors and classified as a primary or secondary condition, depending on its cause. Treatment depends on the presentation of the condition and the individual’s overall health.
There are two classifications used to determine the cause of the development of glossodynia. If the origin of the syndrome is unknown, the condition is referred to as idiopathic or primary BMS. When the disorder is caused by an underlying condition, it is known as secondary burning mouth syndrome.
Individuals who experience persistent dry mouth due to the use of certain prescription medications may develop signs of glossodynia. Those with nutritional deficiencies, anxiety, or dentures may be at increased risk of developing symptoms associated with burning mouth syndrome. Certain medical conditions, including hormonal imbalances, acid reflux disease, and endocrine disorders such as diabetes, can also lead to the development of glossodynia.
Those who develop this rare condition may experience a variety of symptoms that affect areas inside the mouth, including the tongue, gums, and cheeks. Symptoms that occur may include numbness or tingling of the tongue, persistent dry mouth, and excessive thirst. The most common symptom is a burning sensation which can affect certain areas inside the mouth or the whole mouth. Additional signs of glossodynia can include impaired taste and a complete inability to taste.
The symptoms associated with this condition may occur periodically and affect different areas within the mouth each time. Some people experience pronounced pain that can last for several days or weeks at a time. Others may experience periodic episodes of mild discomfort or irritation that last only a few days accompanied by an absence of symptoms for several days between episodes. Individuals may experience periodic symptoms for years before a diagnosis of BMS is confirmed.
There is no single diagnostic test that can be performed to confirm that an individual has BMS. A diagnosis is generally made once the possibility of other conditions has been ruled out. Initially, a review of the individual’s medial history may be conducted followed by an examination of their mouth. Following a preliminary exam, further tests may be done to assess the person’s overall health and to check for any underlying conditions. Use of certain prescribed medications may be stopped to see if their use is contributing to symptoms.
Blood tests may be administered to evaluate the individual’s glucose levels and immune and thyroid function. In some cases, imaging tests that include the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and a computed tomography (CT) scan may be done to evaluate whether an underlying condition may be present. Oral cultures may be done to rule out the presence of any viral, fungal, or bacterial infections.
As there is no single approach to treating this condition, treatment for BMS depends on how symptoms are present. Individuals with secondary BMS often find their symptoms diminish or regress once the underlying condition is successfully treated. Cases of idiopathic glossodynia can be more difficult to treat, as there is no recognizable cause and no cure for the condition. Finding a treatment regimen that helps reduce or relieve symptoms can take time.
Very often, individuals with primary BMS employ a variety of combinations of therapies before finding one that works. Approaches involving the use of oral medications, supplements, and mouthwashes or washes may be used. Individuals whose symptoms are related to psychological factors, such as anxiety or depression, may find relief with the administration of antidepressant medications. BMS induced by nutritional deficiency can be alleviated with the use of supplements, such as B vitamins or folic acid. Additional treatment options may involve the use of anticonvulsant medications given in the form of throat lozenges, dietary changes to increase the presence of antioxidants in the body, and the use of products to increase saliva production.
Complications associated with this condition can include mood changes, insomnia, or loss of appetite. Those who have a known food allergy, have been diagnosed with an upper respiratory tract infection, or are taking certain prescription medications may be at an increased risk of developing glossodynia. Recent dental procedures and unusually high amounts of stress, such as experiencing a traumatic event, also increase an individual’s susceptibility to this condition.
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