My mouth is one fire

[lilly222]

It all started about 6 months ago when I woke up and the insides of my cheeks were swollen. Every time I bit down in an attempt to eat my back teeth made contact with the inside of my cheeks. Over the next week my tongue started burning, my lips burn non-stop and the roof of mouth is raw & I developed a metallic taste in my mouth. Let me throw in here I also suffer from severe dry mouth. That started about 5 years ago when I hit menopause (if a link I don't know).

I went to my dentist here in Boise, ID but he literally blew me off (time to find a new dentist!). I have been to my regular doctor a few times over this. He took me off of Topamax which I take for my migraines as a possible cause. Burning continued. He also prescribed an Rx for something to stimulate the saliva in my mouth. I now have some saliva relief but the burning tongue, lips, mouth, sore inner cheeks continue.

After 6 months of this I am not sure what to do next. I am leaving on a 2 week vacation soon and I can't even get excited about that as I know I am going to be miserable the entire time. Anyone out there have advice, suggestions, ? I would appreciate any input you might have to offer.

[Tally]

Hi sadly only 6 weeks ago this very same thing happened to myself but in my case all in one hit and when I delved further found there is a Burning Mouth Syndrome which can relate to Sjorens sadly there is little that seems to be able to be done , but in saying that i used hundreds of frozen ice cubes and yes the burning sensation seemed to melt them immediately but I just kep using more.I literally placed cold Lactose free milk in my mouth to try and calm the burning...so help this may help as I feel for you as the sensation does not cease 24/7.In saying all this am seeing my specialsist on friday and if any more help will pass on.Take care please

[Beverly]

Individuals who have experienced the condition describe it as a painful burning that seems similar to that of reflux or an allergic reaction, but the burning continues on even despite typical treatments. If you are affected by burning mouth syndrome, you likely consider even normal, everyday activities, like speaking and eating, quite painful, which is one reason progressive care is so important. In any case, you can use natural cures, like vitamin B, alpha-lipoic acid, and baking soda to treat burning mouth syndrome.

What Is Burning Mouth Syndrome?

Just as its name implies, burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a condition characterized by pervasive burning in your mouth and throat. The condition also commonly affects your gums, lips, inside of your cheeks, and roof of your mouth. The pain is commonly so sudden and severe that it feels as if you have scalded your mouth. The condition also often causes a sensation of dry mouth and increased thirst as well as changes in your tastes.

While it is often difficult to identify the cause of BMS, the condition is generally classified as either primary or secondary depending on the “identifiable” cause. Primary burning mouth syndrome is diagnosed when no clinical or lab abnormalities are apparent or identifiable. Secondary BMS is associated with an underlying medical condition, such as dry mouth, fungal infection, inflammatory conditions, nutritional deficiencies, dentures, allergies or allergic reactions, reflux, oral habits, endocrine disorders, excessive mouth irritation, or psychological factors.

How Can I Treat BMS Naturally?

In addition to medical support, you can implement a number of lifestyle or home remedies as well as natural treatments to remedy burning mouth syndrome. Some of the most effective treatment options include vitamin B, alpha-lipoic acid, baking soda, and dietary changes. Drinking extra water and eating ice chips are also good “instant relievers” for the condition.

1. Vitamin B

According to NaturalRemedies.org, burning mouth syndrome is often a result of vitamin deficiency. One of the most commonly deficient nutrients associated with the condition is vitamin B, so boosting your intake of the nutrient is an effective way to treat the condition. You can take a daily supplement or add additional natural sources of the nutrient to your diet. Meat, brown rice, fish, wheat germ, whole grain breads and cereals, and soybeans are all good sources of vitamin B.

2. Alpha-Liopic Acid

A study in the Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine supports alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) as an effective remedy for burning mouth syndrome. This nutrient is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your body against free radicals. It also helps recover the function of your nerve cells and prevent further damage. For the best results, take 600mg of ALA twice a day.

3. Baking Soda

Baking soda is another effective treatment option as it helps neutralize the environment in your mouth. This substance helps balance your pH and alleviates various symptoms associated with acidity in your body. Baking soda also helps fight infection and overgrowth of yeast in your mouth. Employ this remedy by brushing with baking soda or gargling with a combination of 1 to 2 teaspoons of baking soda in 6 to 8 ounces of water.

4. Honey

Honey is another treatment option supported by NaturalRemedies.org. This treatment helps soothe your mouth and also helps fight infection. Try applying honey directly to your tongue and allow it to sit for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing.

5. Lavender

Lavender is another effective remedy for BMS. This treatment helps soothe pain and reduce inflammation. It also helps calm your senses and reduce stress. For the best results, take 40 mg of lavender oil by mouth twice a day.

Hope this helps.

[Tassa]

Your burning mouth etc may be the result of a lack of vitamin b. I had a similar problem when I was first diagnosed with SS and it was suggested by a friend that I take a course of vitamin b which i did. I have continued taking multi vitamins all the time and have not had any more problems with a sore mouth. It would pay to keep your lips moisturized at all times because if they dry out the dryness continues into the mouth creating the soreness.

People with auto immune problems are lacking in vitamins and minerals.

I can only suggest that this may be the problem. Maybe you could visit a health shop for advice. I have found that pharmaceutical medications do not really solve the problem and have too many side affects. Hope this helps.

Traveller.

[lilly222 in reply to Tassa]

Thank you for taking the time to reply to me. I will definitely follow your advice. I purchased vitamin B12 at the store last night along with a multivitamin. I am quite frustrated with my MD. After all this time & $ spent on doctor visits he has admitted to me he hasn't a clue how to treat my condition. He has now recommended I see an ENT (eyes, nose, throat) doctor. RealIzed it's going to be up to me to investigate & tackle this on my own. Thanks to you and this forum I may beat this yet.

[Tassa in reply to lilly222]

i think that we all have the same frustrating results of trying to get help from Doctors. I have had more results from hints from other SS sufferers than from any medical person and yes I have spent hundreds of dollars with no satisfaction. Multi vitamins play a big part in helping to combat SS. Omega 3 oils such as Cod Liver and Flaxseed are very helpful as well.

Traveller.

[arcdeciel]

Hi there, I had great success with scalded mouth syndrome by taking 4 R-Alpha Lipoic Acid capsules per day for a while. It is best to get R Alpha Lipoic Acid rather than the Alpha Lipoic without the R init.

I wish you well.

[arcdeciel]

It is unlikely an ENT will know. Mine didn't. They don't seem to have any awareness of the close connection between the digestive system and vitamin deficiencies and the rest of the body. Don't waste your money without trying the vitamin B and R Alpha Lipoic acid first.

[lilly222]

Thanks for the advice. I can't believe how much time and $ I have spent going for repeated doctor visits for him pretty much admitting he hasn't a clue what to do. I will try the vitamin B and R Alpha Lipoic acid route next.