Miscellaneous

Burning tip of tongue. Causes and treatment

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Content

  1. Possible reasons
  2. Intolerance to metal or metal structures
  3. Galvanose
  4. Denture metal allergy
  5. Toxic reaction to metal ions
  6. Trauma
  7. Diseases of the tongue
  8. Candidiasis and leptotrichosis
  9. Other causes of burning in the tongue
  10. Diagnostics
  11. Treatment methods
  12. Medicines for the complex treatment of glossalgia
  13. Home treatment
  14. Possible consequences and complications
  15. Burning tongue video

If a person has burning sensation in the tip of the tongue then such symptoms may indicate a variety of reasons. At the same time, violations are not always exclusively of a dental nature. Unpleasant sensations in the language can also appear with some pathologies of internal organs. Allergies, candidiasis and much more cannot be ruled out. Sometimes such a symptom has no explanation at all and is a pathological condition in itself.

Possible reasons

In medical practice, dozens of reasons for the appearance of a burning sensation in the tongue are listed (a similar syndrome is usually called glossalgia). The most common ones are worth considering.

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This is a large group of reasons against which the described syndrome appears. During treatment at the dentist, patients are often fitted with a variety of metal structures. These can be crowns from different alloys, inlays and other elements. They are made of stainless steel, nickel-chromium, cobalt-chromium. Structures can be coated with ceramic, titanium or other. The removable tabs also have a metal frame.

There are 3 forms of this intolerance: galvanosis, allergic or toxic reaction. These deviations have very similar symptoms, so it is worth considering them in more detail.

Galvanose

A burning sensation of the tip of the tongue, the causes of which may lie in prolonged contact with metals, is sometimes represented by galvanic currents that occur in the oral cavity. When they appear, a person complains of a characteristic tingling sensation. Such a reaction can be observed after the installation of dentures made of various alloys.Burning tip of tongue. Causes and treatment

The problem is that most alloys are made with a certain percentage of added minor components (tungsten, molybdenum, nickel, and others). If the metals used have different electrochemical potential, then a kind of electric current leaks appear. Saliva acts as an electrolyte, which provokes micro-discharges.

Therefore, it is recommended to give preference to dental constructions made of one alloy, without impurities. The ideal option is to use metal-free ceramics.

With galvanosis, there is a burning sensation or "creeping creeps" in the tongue. He may also be numb. Some patients complain of a metallic taste and sleep problems. The sensation of electrical discharges can be intensified if you touch the installed prosthesis with a spoon or any metal object.

If you examine the tongue, redness on the sides will be clearly visible on it. Also, with an open mouth and a pulled out tongue, there is almost no salivation. The stronger the resistance of the materials of construction, the more acute the symptoms will be. If the denture is replaced, the burning sensation disappears after 5-12 months. Much depends on how long the metal has been in the mouth and on the intensity of the currents.

The main problem is that in the course of such a reaction, metal corrosion begins. This, in turn, can provoke an allergic reaction and other problems.

In about 27.5% of dental patients, burning and other unpleasant symptoms in the oral cavity are associated with an allergy to metal alloys used in dental construction. This syndrome is called sensitization. More often it occurs in the case of metal corrosion (it can begin both when using low-quality materials and due to galvanosis).

Most patients are diagnosed with nickel allergy. The reaction to cobalt and chromium is slightly less common. It is these metals that are used in dental alloys in most situations.

Many people confuse this concept with an allergic reaction. However, in the case of toxic-chemical stomatitis, the clinical picture unfolds differently. Typically, the syndrome develops 2-3 months after the installation of the prosthesis. But in some situations, the reaction to metals may not appear for several years until corrosion begins in the installed structure. This disturbs the clinical picture, since after such a period it is more difficult to understand what exactly provoked the reaction.Burning tip of tongue. Causes and treatment

It happens that at first the doctor has a suspicion of an allergy, but after the diagnosis, the result is negative. In this case, it is also worth conducting a test that will eliminate a toxic reaction not only in the oral cavity itself, but also in the whole organism.

Trauma

A burning sensation of the tip of the tongue (the reasons can be very different) is sometimes the result of trauma. They can be mechanical or chemical. Also, injury could occur due to the actions of the patient.

He could accidentally damage his tongue if:

  • uses toothpaste containing abrasive substances;
  • uses a rinse aid containing ethyl alcohol;
  • is taking certain medications, with and without a prescription (for example, aspirin) or products that contain hydrogen peroxide, phenol, and sulfuric acid;
  • eats a lot of citrus fruits (they contain a lot of vitamin C, which has an irritating effect on the tongue).
  • drinks acidic drinks or likes to chew cough lozenges that contain a lot of menthol.

The dentist could also cause injury if he:

  • used irrigation agents during treatment, which include formaldehyde, sodium hypochloride or methyl methacryl;
  • used acrylic resin;
  • used eugenol.

If the burning sensation appears only once, then perhaps the person drank something too cold or, conversely, hot.

Diseases of the tongue

Symptoms of this type can also be a sign of certain tongue disorders.Burning tip of tongue. Causes and treatment

Name of the disease Description
Desquamative glossitis Also, doctors call this pathology "geographical language", since in the process of the development of the disease, red foci appear on the tongue. They turn red due to the death of the epithelium. Later, epithelium appears in these areas and foci appear in another place. As a rule, a burning sensation of the tongue with such a disease is observed while eating or drinking.
Folded tongue In the course of the development of the disease, folds appear on the tongue, mostly symmetrical. Because of this, the mucous membrane begins to become inflamed, candidiasis or excessive sensitivity to certain stimuli may appear.
Glossitis of Hunter-Miller This is an inflammation of the tongue that occurs with folate deficiency anemia. The main reason for this is achilic gastritis, that is, the form in which there is no acidic environment in the stomach. One of the signs of pathology is a "lacquered tongue", red spots and burning sensation.

Candidiasis and leptotrichosis

If the patient suffers from candidiasis, then we are talking about a fungal disease, during which the oral mucosa is affected. Most often, the lesion is localized in the tongue, which leads to a burning sensation. Candida itself is found in the oral cavity of even healthy people.

It does not make itself felt in any way and manifests itself exclusively with a decrease in the functions of the immune system. In this case, it acquires pathogenic properties. Various factors can provoke a decrease in protective functions. For example, the local immunity of the oral cavity may have decreased due to the intake of certain antibiotics. Also, this is typical in the presence of a malignant tumor or if the patient is undergoing radiation or chemotherapy.

Burning tip of tongue. Causes and treatment

There are several types of candidiasis, so the symptoms can be quite different. For example, with atrophic candidiasis, there is no white plaque, and in the case of a different form, it will be clearly visible both on the tongue and on the patient's cheeks.

Leptotrichosis is another infectious lesion that affects the oral mucosa. Leptotrichia bacteria are classified as opportunistic. That is, they are also present in the mouth of most people, but do not bring any inconvenience.

The active growth of bacteria begins with a deterioration in immunity or when the patient suffers from certain diseases that affect the internal organs. For example, leptechoria can be found in scrapings of the tongue of patients diagnosed with gastritis, enterocolitis, peptic ulcer disease.

Other causes of burning in the tongue

Symptoms can appear when there is a lack of vitamins or iron in the body. This happens with a deficiency of B6, B12. As a rule, such problems are faced by people suffering from celiac disease or if the patient has a decrease in the rate of absorption of nutrients by the stomach.

This may be a reaction to diabetes mellitus, in the case of diabetic neuropathy. In this situation, patients complain not only of a burning sensation in the tongue, but also of tingling in other parts of the body.

Diseases of the autoimmune type should not be ruled out. They are quite rare. But if a patient is diagnosed with lupus, then it is always accompanied by a burning sensation of the tip of the tongue. If there is a suspicion of Sjogren's syndrome, then the production of saliva will additionally be reduced.

Burning tip of tongue. Causes and treatment
Sjogren's disease. Symptoms

With scarlet fever, the patient first notes the appearance of a white bloom. Then the tongue turns red, dots appear on it. Burning sensation is one of the additional symptoms.

Diagnostics

Diagnostic measures can be very different, since there are a lot of reasons for the appearance of a symptom. To detect an allergic reaction to metals, tests must be performed using small amounts of different types of metals. Samples are evaluated within a day, after which it is possible to determine how strong a person's reaction to a particular metal is.

To detect galvanosis, a procedure using a microammeter with two active electrodes is required. They are small plates of lead. After the study, the strength of the received microcurrents is determined. If it is 15 microamperes, then the patient feels a burning sensation of the tip of the tongue. In this case, it is recommended to replace the dental constructions with others.

A burning sensation of the tip of the tongue may appear due to a toxic reaction. If the doctor suspects this problem, then it is necessary to analyze the patient's hair and determine their trace element composition. After that, it will be possible to say with precision whether the replacement of dental structures or other treatment is required.

During the diagnosis, it is important to clarify when and under what circumstances symptoms appear. Sometimes a burning sensation appears only when eating certain foods. In some patients, the symptom is noticeable only at night, while others suffer from it throughout the day.

In some situations, we are talking about neuropsychiatric disorders, problems with the autonomic system. It is best to visit several specialists at once. When the tongue burns, it is recommended to consult a dentist, gastroenterologist, neurologist.

The cost of diagnostics depends on its type and location. In a polyclinic, a doctor can issue a referral for a free examination by registration. Or you can go to a private medical facility. The cost of procedures in this case can be from 1000 rubles.

Treatment methods

Burning of the tip of the tongue (the reasons should be found out even in the case of minor manifestations of such symptoms) is treated with different methods, depending on the disease or syndrome that caused such a condition. After consultation with a specialist, it is usually first required to eliminate foci of pathological impulses.

It is worth highlighting several types of therapeutic measures:

Therapy Peculiarities
Informing An important stage in the treatment of the patient, since he must be well aware of what exactly provokes a burning sensation in the area of ​​the tongue. Many patients suspect oncological pathologies when such a burning sensation appears. It is important that they do not start taking certain medications on their own, which will only aggravate the situation.
Local therapy Rinsing the mouth with clonazepam will help to quickly reduce the burning sensation, but not exclude the factor provoking it. Some doctors prescribe capsaicin (but only in low concentrations).Burning tip of tongue. Causes and treatment
Non-drug therapy If the burning sensation of the tongue is caused by a phobia, depression or other psychological disorder, then psychotherapeutic methods of treatment are used. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy is highly effective. Also, patients are prescribed group sessions.
Physiotherapy In some diseases, laser therapy and acupuncture are used to reduce pain and associated symptoms.

To normalize the nervous system, the doctor may prescribe valerian root, motherwort, and other mild sedatives. Stimulants of tissue metabolism may also be required. To do this, it is usually enough to take a course of taking B vitamins. In difficult situations, antidepressants or tranquilizers may be required.

Also, the doctor may prescribe topical agents. For example, you can soothe itching with a 2% solution of novocaine. Some people use lidocaine (10%), with which there are special lozenges. They are anti-inflammatory and anesthetic. Capsaicin-based drugs are considered effective.

Medicines for the complex treatment of glossalgia

The classic treatment regimen is to prescribe a mild antidepressant. For example, if a patient has an anxiety disorder, Afobazole may be prescribed. It must be taken 1 tablet three times a day. The course of treatment is 2 months, but the duration of the drug intake can be changed by the attending physician.

The active substance of this drug is fabomotizol. But the agent should not be taken not only with hypersensitivity to the active substance, but also if the patient suffers from galactose intolerance or lactase deficiency. The drug must not be taken during pregnancy, lactation and if the patient is under 18 years of age.

A burning sensation of the tip of the tongue, the reasons for which temporarily cannot be found out, can also be stopped with the help of Trental. This drug helps to reduce the viscosity of the blood, thereby improving its fluidity. In case of burning of the tip of the tongue, the doctor usually recommends 1 tablet three times a day. The course of treatment is 1 month or less. The drug is contraindicated in case of severe bleeding or in case of risk of extensive hemorrhage in the brain or retina.Burning tip of tongue. Causes and treatment

If, in addition to burning, the patient suffers from severe, unbearable pain, then the doctor may prescribe an anesthetic. For example, Kamistad quickly helps. This is a gel that can be used to treat the oral cavity. It contains lidocaine (2%) and chamomile extract, which has a calming effect.

Also, the doctor may prescribe 2 injections of Diprospan. The procedures are performed according to the principle of conductive anesthesia, that is, an injection is placed in the lower jaw. An interval of 1 week is required between treatments. When injected, Diprospan is diluted in a solution of lidocaine. But if the patient suffers from cardiovascular disease, then it is better not to use this drug or to prescribe it only after agreeing on the course of treatment with a cardiologist.

Home treatment

If the burning sensation is not strong and appeared against the background of eating hot food, cold drinks or other factors that do not belong to any pathology, then you can resort to methods that will reduce pain and other discomfort:

  • Drink warm sage tea. Mallow leaves or linden flowers are also effective. Aloe vera has a calming effect.Burning tip of tongue. Causes and treatment
  • Suck on an ice cube. If the burning sensation is caused by the fact that a person has burned his tongue, then ice will help to temporarily improve the condition. But you can only use one cube, as more ice can provoke colds and other problems.
  • Gargle with salt solution. To prepare it, it is enough to dissolve a few small tablespoons of salt in a glass of warm water.
  • In case of dry mouth, you need to drink more fluids. But it doesn't have to be soda or lemonade. It is also worth abandoning natural fruit juices, as they often have a slight irritant effect on the mucous membrane. It is best to give preference to warm water, tea.
  • If the problems are caused by mental problems or depression, then you can resort to autogenous training, meditation. Yoga is highly effective. You need to spend more time in the fresh air and try not to get nervous.

Oral hygiene should be monitored. If there is a suspicion that the burning sensation is caused by the means used, then you should consult a dentist and choose another one. It is best not to buy gargles that contain alcohol. The toothpaste should be free of hard particles.

It is also worth revising the regimen and diet. It is recommended that you stop eating sour fruits. It is better to give up citrus fruits, pineapples, tomatoes, as well as coffee and alcoholic beverages. Burning sensation can be aggravated by spicy food, frequent smoking.

Possible consequences and complications

If the patient suffers from galvanosis, then the disease cannot be started, since otherwise leukoplakia and lichen planus may appear in the oral cavity. With timely treatment, there will be no complications and the patient quickly recovers, but in an advanced degree galvanosis leads to serious consequences.

When corrosion forms on metal dental structures, sensitization of the body can begin. At first, a mild metal allergy develops, but gradually it gets worse. If it is left untreated, it can lead to a state of shock. Corrosion also provokes additional toxic-chemical reactions by interacting with metals.

Thus, it is important to clarify the reasons why a person has a burning sensation in the area of ​​the tip of the tongue. On the basis of this, a course of treatment is drawn up. As can be seen from the foregoing, quite often such symptoms appear with problems that the dentist solves. When installing metal structures, it is always worthwhile to clarify what exactly they are made of and not try to save money, since the patient's health may depend on this.

Burning tongue video

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