Burning mouth syndrome

• Burning mouth syndrome causes a painful and burning sensation in the mouth or on the tongue. While it is not harmful, it can be very bothersome.
• You may also experience a dry mouth or changes in your sense of taste and smell.
• A decrease in oestrogen levels can reduce saliva quality. This can make the mucous membranes thinner and more fragile, leading to a burning sensation in the mouth or on the tongue.
• Various medications can help relieve symptoms. Additionally, a healthy lifestyle and good oral hygiene play a role in preventing and reducing burning mouth syndrome.

Saliva in your mouth serves an important function. It aids in digestion and contains enzymes that protect beneficial bacteria in your mouth while killing harmful ones. Although the exact cause of burning mouth syndrome is not yet known, fluctuating hormone levels during menopause may affect saliva production.

Oestrogen plays a role in saliva production and maintaining healthy mucous membranes in the mouth. When oestrogen levels drop, the mucous membranes can become drier and more sensitive. Reduced saliva production decreases the mouth's natural protection, making it more vulnerable and potentially contributing to burning mouth syndrome. Experts also suspect that the burning sensation in the mouth or on the tongue may be caused by damaged nerves responsible for taste and pain.

Middle-aged women are more likely to experience burning mouth syndrome than men of the same age group. Researchers believe hormonal changes play a role, but the exact cause remains unknown. Burning mouth syndrome can be distressing and even stressful. Eating, talking, and sleeping may become difficult due to the symptoms, which can lead to feelings of anxiety or depression.

Stress, poor sleep, or underlying conditions (such as diabetes or thyroid problems) can also contribute to burning mouth syndrome. Other menopausal symptoms may exacerbate the burning sensation in your mouth. Additionally, burning mouth syndrome can be a side effect of certain medications. Always consult a doctor or dentist to rule out other medical conditions.

What you may experience with burning mouth syndrome:

• Painful and burning sensation in the mouth, throat, and/or on the tongue.
• Itching, tingling, and/or stinging in the mouth.
• Red patches on the mucous membranes or lips.
• Grooves on the tongue.
• Dry mouth and an unusual taste in the mouth.
• The development of benign mucosal abnormalities. Sometimes blisters or ulcers may appear, which usually indicate another underlying cause, such as an infection.
• Symptoms are often mild in the morning but worsen as the day progresses.

Burning mouth syndrome is not harmful to your health, but it is unpleasant. It can last for months but may also disappear suddenly. There are several effective ways to address burning mouth syndrome. You don’t have to live with it. You can support your body naturally with healthy nutrition, sufficient exercise, and rest. Additionally, supplements and medications can help.

Hormonal changes during menopause can affect your energy levels, sleep, digestion, and metabolism. Healthy nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate rest can help prevent or alleviate symptoms. Small adjustments can make a big difference in how you feel.

When using medications or supplements, a balanced lifestyle supports your body in absorbing nutrients and processing medications, making them more effective. Experts recommend the following for burning mouth syndrome:

• Avoid acidic foods, strong spices, coffee, sugar, and alcohol, as these can worsen symptoms.
• Boost your immune system by eating a varied and healthy diet and drinking plenty of water. Regular exercise is also beneficial for your immune system and promotes circulation.
• Dissolve a small amount of salt in water and rinse your mouth after brushing your teeth in the morning. This may help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth.
• Visit your dentist regularly and maintain good oral hygiene. Discuss with your dentist which products support saliva production and which toothpaste is best for you.
• Sugar-free gum or sucking on ice cubes can provide temporary relief.
• Certain ointments can help relieve pain. Consult your doctor about this.
• If your symptoms are severe or you notice unusual or irritated spots in your mouth, make an appointment with your doctor. They can test for other medical causes, such as a fungal infection.

Many women are unaware that there are proven effective hormone-free medications to relieve menopausal symptoms. While hormone therapy can address multiple symptoms simultaneously, hormone-free medications often target a specific symptom. For example, certain antidepressants (SNRIs) for hot flushes, anti-inflammatory drugs for joint pain, or antacids for acid reflux.

Hormone-free medications are always prescribed by a doctor. They can be a good option for those who cannot or do not want to use hormone therapy. These medications work directly on the symptom without affecting your hormonal balance, allowing you to address your symptoms in a targeted way and support your body.

During menopause, your body undergoes changes in how it produces energy, builds muscle, and repairs skin. You can support these processes naturally with high-quality supplements. Magnesium, vitamin D, and omega-3 are recommended for all women going through menopause. Supplements can also target specific symptoms such as hot flushes, poor sleep, and burning mouth syndrome.

The effectiveness of supplements can vary from person to person. This depends on factors such as your lifestyle and overall health. The quality of the product also determines how well it works. Choose high-quality supplements without unnecessary fillers.