A burning tongue is a fairly common occurrence. However, it should be remembered that this type of illness may be a symptom of a disease developing in the body. Check when a burning tongue is a warning sign.

A burning tongue is a natural reaction of the body to hot spices. It usually appears when we eat too much chili or pepper. However, sometimes the mentioned ailment may indicate that something bad is happening in our body.

A burning tongue may indicate diabetes

A burning tongue may indicate fluctuations in glucose levels in the body. These types of illnesses are often one of the symptoms of diabetes. This symptom typically occurs along with other disturbing changes in the body. These include, but are not limited to, recurrent urinary tract infections, gum infections, frequent urination, and excessive thirst. It should be remembered that underestimation of diabetes leads to many complications, such as: ketoacidosis, diabetic foot, visual impairment, kidney failure and diabetic neuropathy.

Burning tongue and cancer

A burning sensation on the tongue can be caused by a tumor developing in this organ. Accompanied by a feeling of numbness or tingling, which typically radiates to the chin. The patient feels pain when eating. He has problems chewing and swallowing. He is choking and coughing. Hoarseness appears. The appearance of such symptoms is an indication for immediate contact with a general practitioner, who will issue a referral to a specialist. They should not be underestimated. The earlier cancer is detected, the greater the chance of full recovery and recovery.

Burning tongue as a symptom of xerostomia

Xerostomia is a dry mouth syndrome. It occurs as a result of improper functioning of the salivary glands, which do not produce enough saliva necessary to moisten the mouth and pre-digest food. These disorders are usually accompanied by inflammatory processes in the oral cavity. The tongue burns and numerous cracks appear on it. There is an unpleasant odor coming from the mouth. The patient complains of issues with the sense of taste. The color of the oral epithelium changes. The patient loses his appetite. In the treatment of xerostomia, drugs that stimulate saliva secretion are used.

Burning tongue and ulcers

One of the reasons for a burning tongue may be aphthous stomatitis. This often leads to the appearance of small erosions (ulcers) on the mucous membrane of the tongue, which causes discomfort and burning pain. Their occurrence is facilitated by, among other things, decreased immunity, celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease. Treatment typically involves the use of an antibacterial gel and mouth rinse, for example, with chamomile or sage infusion. Recurrent ulcerative lesions require consultation with a doctor.

Other causes of burning tongue

What else could a burning tongue indicate? This condition has many causes, such as:

  • Improper oral hygiene,
  • drinking excessive amounts of alcohol and smoking cigarettes,
  • neurosis,
  • allergies,
  • oral injuries,
  • gastroesophageal reflux,
  • stomach ulcer,
  • Hypothyroidism,
  • primary burning mouth syndrome.

It should be remembered that the diagnosis of a disease or disorder should not be based on the analysis of only one symptom. It is necessary to take into account the spectrum of all emerging ailments. If you experience a burning sensation on your tongue for no apparent reason, contact your healthcare provider. Don’t ignore any symptom, but don’t make a diagnosis yourself. Consult a specialist.