With the passage of time, women go through different very important stages: menstruation, menopause, and some due to pregnancyare the best known. After approximately 50 years of age, estrogen levels drop and menopause arrives, a phase in which hot flashes, loss of muscle mass, weight gain may occur… However, other symptoms may occur that cause a lot of discomfort. , we talk about a little-known syndrome despite affecting so many women. It is generally located in the mouth.
We refer to the burning mouth syndrome (BMS)a condition that many women suffer during menopause. It is characterized by the burning sensation on the tongue, gums, lips, inside of the cheeks, palate or large areas of the entire mouth. This has been assured since Mayo Clinic. Dr. Sarmed Sami, gastroenterologist at the Mayo Clinic in London, has delved into BMS and its importance in menopausal women.
What is burning mouth syndrome?
BMS occurs frequently in women experiencing menopause.. The doctor states that it is a “painful and complex condition, which usually takes a long time to be correctly diagnosed, because its symptoms are confused with other conditions, such as fungal infections or autoimmune disorders.”
In general, This syndrome appears suddenlybut it can develop slowly over time. Because the specific cause often cannot be found, treatment is difficult for patients.
Sami states that this condition has been linked to decreased estrogen levels typical of menopause. In this way, the pain receptors in the mouth are affected, and the nerves can become hypersensitive resulting in the burning that characterizes the syndrome. In addition to the decrease in estrogen, there are other factors that have been related to BMS according to the Mayo Clinic.
Other causes of burning mouth syndrome
Within burning mouth syndrome we can differentiate two levels. The first occurs when the cause is unknown and is called idopathic or primary burning mouth syndrome. According to specialists, it can be related to nerve problems that have to do with taste and pain.
On other occasions BMS is caused by an underlying disease. Underlying problems include dry mouth, sometimes caused by certain medications, health problems, or side effects of cancer treatment.
Other oral conditions are Oral candidiasis or geographic tongue (frequently diagnosed in women). BMS can also be related to nutrient deficiencies according to experts, such as a lack of iron, zinc, and vitamins B-9, B-1, B-2, B-6 and B-12.
They also point out different causes such as:
- Food allergies or reactions.
- Stomach acid reflux.
- Some medications (especially for high blood pressure).
- Have oral habits such as pushing your teeth with your tongue.
- Endocrine disorders: diabetes, hypothyroidism…
- Oral irritation.
- Psychological problems: anxiety, depression, stress…
How to remove the sensation of a burning mouth?
Now that you know the most common causes and symptoms of BMS, we can delve into the ways to reduce discomfort. In addition to the medical treatment that professionals will advise you, there are other home remedies and habits to follow that according to the Mayo Clinic They help alleviate this uncomfortable burning sensation.
First of all, they advise drink plenty of fluids or suck on ice chips. However, you should avoid acidic liquids and foods (tomatoes, orange juice, carbonated drinks and coffee). Another drink you should avoid is alcohol, as well as products that contain it, since “it can irritate the lining of the mouth.”
Eliminate spice from your dietthat will only cause more irritation. Cinnamon and mint products are also not recommended if you have BMS. You can also use unflavored or mild toothpastes. Finally, it is essential to take care of your mental health, to reduce stress or anxiety.
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