Journal of Hepatology and Gastrointestinal disorders
Open Access

Abstract

Burning Mouth Syndrome: A Review

Swapnil Mohod*, Shailee Chandak, Suwarna Dangore, Kumar Gaurav Chhabra, Amit Reche and Shraddha Patel

Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a chronic, debilitating orofacial pain syndrome causing burning or scalding sensation in the mouth. This disease primarily affects middle-aged and older women who are experiencing hormonal or psychological changes. Most commonly, the affected site is anterior 2/3^rd of the tongue. This disease is most likely multifactorial in nature, is typically idiopathic and the exact etiopathogenesis remains unknown. Psychological disorders such as stress, depression and anxiety play a demonstrable role in burning mouth syndrome. High rate of occurrence in post-menopausal women strongly suggest a link to hormonal changes. Patients with BMS also experience oral mucosal discomfort, changed taste sensations, and dry mouth in addition to the burning sensation. So far, there is no standardized treatment for this condition, but a proposed combination of supportive care and medications are recommended. Benzodiazepines are used as first line drug in pharmacological treatment of BMS. Non-Pharmacological treatment includes cognitive behavioural therapy, group psychology, yoga, and meditation etc. The purpose of this review is to acquaint healthcare practitioners with the epidemiology, aetiology, classification, basic features, psychological dysfunction and medical conditions associated with BMS, as well as keeping them informed about current therapy choices, in order to effectively manage this patient population.

Published Date: 2022-01-31; Received Date: 2022-01-04