When your tongue feels like it's burning (and not because of spicy or hot food)

Middle-aged to older women in particular tend to suffer from BMS, also known as glossodynia. — dpa

You may think nothing of it if you feel a burning sensation on your tongue, and it may go away by itself after a little while.

Sometimes it doesn’t though, and the sensation can affect other areas in your mouth or lips.

When is there cause for concern?

If the symptoms persist for four to five days, you should see a doctor, advises gastroenterologist Dr Ulrich R. Foelsch.

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) affects about 2% to 3% of the population, estimates dentist and orthodontist Dr Wolfgang Schmiedel.

It’s most common in middle-aged and older women, he says.

There are numerous possible causes of the condition, including an iron deficiency or allergic reaction to a metal.

It may be a reaction by oral mucous membranes to certain substances in your toothpaste.

One of the most common underlying medical conditions of BMS is Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease that causes a dry mouth and dry eyes, Dr Schmiedel says.

Multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia – a disorder characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain – can also underlie BMS.

It often occurs in connection with diabetes, heartburn or colitis.

Further possible causes are thyroid dysfunction, as well as liver and gallbladder infections.

Other possibilities include aphthous ulcers, which are open sores on the oral mucous membrane; inflammation of the gums (gingivitis); tooth decay; or fungal infections.

The burning sensation may have a mechanical trigger, e.g. irritation from dentures or protruding dental fillings, Dr Schmiedel says.

A deficiency of vitamin B12, B9 or C is a conceivable cause too.

An abnormal sensation on the tongue, such as burning or tingling, is also a possible side effect of some medications.

And “burning mouth syndrome is quite often psychological in nature,” he notes.

It can be a physical symptom of depression or result from stress.

The first place to turn to if you have a chronic or recurrent burning sensation in your mouth without an obvious cause is your general practitioner (GP).

“The GP will often involve other medical experts – a dentist, neurologist or psychologist, for example – for help in making the diagnosis,” Dr Foelsch says.

The method of treatment depends on the cause.

“Since treatment is directed at the cause, curing BMS can often take a long time,” Dr Schmiedel says.

If the doctor diagnoses Sjogren’s syndrome, for example, it’s important to stimulate saliva production – with chewing gum or lozenges for instance.

If psychological problems are the primary trigger, cognitive behavioural therapy can be effective.

”Chamomile or sage tea can often alleviate the symptoms,” Dr Foelsch adds.

If BMS is accompanied by strong pain, pain relievers can help.

Sometimes, the syndrome is caused by something relatively innocuous, such as drinking too many hot beverages or eating foods that are overly spicy or sweet.

In these cases the remedy is simple, Dr Schmiedel says: Cut down on these things. – dpa