Burning Sensation on the Tongue: Causes and Solutions

Burning sensation of the tongue

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing chronic fatigue.
It starts about three hours after I wake up and after my afternoon nap, whether it's a workday or a holiday.
Initially, I feel tired and want to rest; if I don't rest or sleep at that moment, I start to feel a bit hungry (which might be normal).
My tongue (the surface of my tongue) begins to feel a burning sensation, which intensifies with fatigue.
Even if I try to sleep at this point, it doesn't take long before I develop sores in my mouth (oral ulcers), and this happens quite rapidly.
My personal life is quite normal; I eat well at three meals, I don't have insomnia, I don't smoke or drink, and my liver function tests are normal.
Taking vitamin B complex hasn't helped, and my work and life stress levels are not high.
Of course, I've consulted some specialists who advised me not to overexert myself and to manage stress, but I really can't identify any significant sources of fatigue or mental stress.
I'm truly at a loss as to what the problem might be.

LL, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/03/24

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear LL/37/0 user,
1.
Your long-term fatigue issue begins three hours after waking up and after lunch, making you feel tired and wanting to rest, whether at work or on weekends.
If you do not rest or sleep during this time, you may start to experience a burning sensation on your tongue, which intensifies with fatigue.
Even if you try to sleep, you may quickly develop mouth sores, which could be related to your immune system.
Additionally, there may be excessive sympathetic nervous system activity, referred to in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as "yin fire" or "deficiency fire," leading to mouth sores.
2.
It is advisable to pay attention to oral hygiene, as poor oral cleanliness may be a contributing factor.
If you have dental caries, it is essential to brush your teeth diligently after meals and address any cavities, while also maintaining overall oral hygiene.
3.
Additionally, monitor your urination and bowel movements.
Symptoms such as yellowish urine and constipation may indicate excessive heart fire, which can lead to mouth sores.
Undigested food accumulating in the intestines can also contribute to this issue.
It is necessary to use herbal remedies to clear heart fire and promote bowel regularity, which can significantly improve your condition.
4.
Regarding mouth sores, TCM believes that there is heat in the internal organs.
Clinically, through TCM diagnosis and treatment, herbal remedies to clear heart fire and stomach heat, or lozenges containing heat-clearing and detoxifying herbs, can provide relief.
5.
Furthermore, dietary adjustments are important.
Increase your water intake, consume more vegetables rich in vitamins B and C, and incorporate exercise and medical consultations to help improve mouth sores.
6.
It is advisable to limit the intake of heat-inducing foods and manage stress to improve your overall constitution and alleviate mouth sores.
If the above suggestions do not lead to improvement, consider visiting my clinic for TCM diagnosis and treatment.
Wishing you good health,
Dr.
Lin Ching-Chung
Director, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Feng Yuan Hospital
Associate Professor, Chung Tai University of Technology

Reply Date: 2015/03/24

More Info

The burning sensation on the tongue and in the oral cavity, often referred to as burning mouth syndrome (BMS), can be a perplexing condition that affects many individuals. It is characterized by a persistent burning sensation in the mouth, particularly on the tongue, and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as dry mouth, altered taste, and even oral ulcers. Understanding the potential causes and solutions for this condition is crucial for effective management.

Possible Causes of Burning Sensation
1. Nutritional Deficiencies: Despite your normal eating habits, deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins (like B12), iron, and folate, can lead to oral symptoms. It’s essential to ensure that your diet is well-rounded and consider blood tests to rule out deficiencies.

2. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women during menopause, can lead to changes in the oral mucosa and result in a burning sensation. If you are experiencing other symptoms related to hormonal changes, this could be a contributing factor.

3. Oral Health Issues: Conditions such as oral thrush (a fungal infection), dry mouth (xerostomia), or even dental issues can cause discomfort. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and consult a dentist if you suspect any underlying dental problems.

4. Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms like burning mouth syndrome. Even if you feel that your stress levels are manageable, it may be beneficial to explore relaxation techniques or speak with a mental health professional.

5. Systemic Conditions: Certain systemic conditions, such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases (like Sjögren's syndrome), or even gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can contribute to oral symptoms. A thorough medical evaluation may be necessary to rule out these conditions.

6. Medications: Some medications can cause dry mouth or alter taste, leading to a burning sensation. Review any medications you are taking with your healthcare provider to see if they could be contributing to your symptoms.

Solutions and Management
1. Dietary Adjustments: Ensure you are consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. If deficiencies are identified, consider supplements under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

2. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms. Consider using saliva substitutes or mouth rinses designed for dry mouth if necessary.

3. Oral Care: Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid harsh mouthwashes that may irritate the mucosa. Regular dental check-ups are also essential.

4. Stress Management: Engage in stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises. These practices can help alleviate both psychological and physical symptoms.

5. Medical Evaluation: If symptoms persist, it may be necessary to consult with specialists such as an oral medicine expert, an endocrinologist, or a gastroenterologist to explore potential underlying conditions.

6. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): If psychological factors are suspected, CBT can be an effective treatment for managing chronic pain and discomfort, including oral symptoms.

In conclusion, while the burning sensation in your mouth can be distressing, understanding the potential causes and exploring various management strategies can significantly improve your quality of life. It is advisable to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers and seek further evaluations if symptoms persist or worsen.

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