Hello,

Based on your symptoms, your age and alcohol abuse, it appears you may be experiencing a common condition known as burning mouth syndrome. Also referred to as BMS, this in an extremely painful condition which causes a severe burning sensation of the tongue, lips, palate, or throughout the entire mouth. Although BMS can affect anyone, it occurs most commonly in middle-aged or older women. Hormonal changes are considered to be important factors in burning mouth syndrome, along with nutritional deficiencies such as the B-vitamins zinc, etc. which may be a result of poor diet due to alcohol abuse.

Treatment often involves consulting with a team of specialists such as a dermatologist, dentist and ear, nose and throat for evaluation to determine the best treatment plan. In many instances, BMS has multiple besides the alcohol abuse. The symptoms may be exacerbated by a yeast infection, vitamin deficiency, dry mouth, anxiety or depression and/or dental problems. .

Treatment depends on what is causing the condition and the severity of symptoms. In an effort to manage burning mouth syndrome until you can be evaluated by your doctor, I would suggest that you:

• Keep your mouth moist. Chewing sugarless gum helps as does sucking on ice chips.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Practice good oral hygiene, brush regularly baking soda and warm water with soft bristle tooth brush and use dental flossC
• Adjust diet and eliminate spicy or acidic foods.
• Limit alcohol use and do not use tobacco.

Click on the underlined links to learn more, let me know what questions you may have.

Sjogren's Syndrome