I was just diagnosed with Burning Mouth Syndrome. I was told there is two different stages, as to I was diagnosed with the extreme one. I have never felt anything like what I do with BMS, personally I'd rather give birth all over instead of what I feel with this. I'm ok when I get up in the morning, and as the day progresses I become worse, and by six pm I'm in severe pain. I have BMS all in my mouth, as well as around my mouth inside and out. I am diagnosed with Fibromyalgia as well no relief in pain there either.
Foods to avoid when I'm diagnosed with BMS?
Question posted by TeddiBuckner on 12 June 2015
Last updated on 6 January 2024
11 Answers
my-place
5 Jan 2024
I'm new to this, thanks for the blogs. I am 75 and I had oral cancer-15 hours of surgery and 6 weeks in the hospital. After recovery, I was able to eat small portions only. After 33 radiation sessions, I had problems. That was 18 months ago. Since then, it has been a liquid diet. The last time I blended a banana in my smoothie, it burnt my mouth. That is when I went in search of a cause and found BMS, and it certainly matches the description. I see my ENT (Ears, Nose, and Throat) surgeon every three months and have an appointment next Monday for another biopsy of my mouth. I will discuss this burning again. I suspect that he suspects a return of the cancer but I'd like to believe that it is BMS for obvious reasons :). I'll report back next Tuesday. My thoughts to all of you.
burningtongue3
11 June 2022
So sorry you had to join this group of sufferers without answers. I wish I had some good advice for you, seems so many people are trying the same medications but nothing is really relieving the most annoying of pains effectively. I have personally come to terms with the fact that not enough people are pushing doctors for answers. It's a shaming ordeal to go through when only the people on this site understand it. My own husband doesn't even remember half the time that this pain exists. Reminding the people close to me is just too exhausting. If you don't live with this continual torment 24/7 it's just too hard to understand! But when I'm at the dentist, dermatologist, ophthalmologist I ask them if they've heard or know anyone else who is going through this? So far to no avail, but if we keep asking questions to the professionals the word will get out eventually. I hope the best to you. I don't frequent this sight too often because it can be dismal.
Retired guy
5 Jan 2024
Have your doctor order a blood test for herpes ( the kissing kind) after being on this site for over two years of suffering I found I have Herpes. After taking valacyclovir for a period of time it eased up and diminished. Yes the doctors can’t be bothered with you so it’s our job and those that follow this site to constantly bring ideas up to them. My physician has since helped a few others who would not have been treated otherwise. You nave have tried this already and found nothing but those of you that have not tried this. Try it and good luck
K2Z
11 April 2022
My symptoms of BMS are identical to yours. I also have Fibromyalgia. I was diagnosed 8 years ago by a specialist, an Oral Facial Pain Specialist. He told me the pain was Neuropathy of sensory portion of 3 cranial nerves and no known cure. As to foods to avoid, for myself, I have not eaten out in years. I fix what food I eat at home. I do not use ANY pepper, Salt, garlic, onions, BBQ sauce, NO Mustard or ketchup, basil, peppermint, NO seasonings of any kind for me. I avoid most all canned goods as they contact Citric Acid as a synthetic preservative. Citric Acid sends my mouth into orbit burning high enough to enter space. I only have 1 cup coffee in morning as this does kick up burning but since I don't sleep but 3 -4 hours a night, I need it to rise and 'shine', riiiight.
My diet is no longer what it once was. I would not dream of eating any delicious Ethnic foods that I used to (Italian, Thai, Chinese, Mexican, Southern & all the rest as they have Seasonings in them that make my pain worse and for many days). My diet now subsists of eggs in any form or fashion (egg salad, boiled, scrambled, sunny side up, fried, poached), tuna fish with mayo, fresh potatoes & sweet potatoes in every possible way (baked, mashed, boiled, roasted in oven, I eat large salads 3-4 nights a week- I make with 3 different lettuces and include garbanzo beans, or any bean you like for protein, shredded carrots, asparagus, roasted sweet potato, Goat cheese, boiled eggs, cucumbers, NO TOMATO EVER, NO PEPPERS, NO SALSA, NO SAUCES AT ALL. I do NOT use ANY salad dressings either. I pour Olive oil over salad and a little maple syrup. I normally have a Baked, mashed or Roasted potato with butter/sour cream 1-2 a week, I fix frozen Blintzes with sour cream, yum. I enjoy some yogurts. I AVOID ALL COLD CUTS as they make my BMS worse. I can eat a Roasted Chicken as long as the skin is removed since skin is rubbed in seasonings. I steam, sauté or boil the many squashes, broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts and serve with small amount of lowfat butter. I cook Okra and Fresh corn on the cobb. I also keep a thermos of ICE filled cold water with me 24/7 to sip on throughout the day and evening when the fire rages on. It goes EVERYWHERE with me. I avoid Chocolate as it kicks up my burning. Pork and other meat make my BMS worse. I also eat bananas, apples, peaches, melons, berries, applesauce, grapes, different nuts for protein. I used to be a foodie who cooked almost every cuisine there is. I have a bookcase of 6 shelves of cookbooks because cooking & eating was ALWAYS my Hobby. It brought me great pleasure. Like some enjoy dancing, playing music, writing, sports, etc. I used to entertain friends and family with outrageous meals in our home. Or take food to someone. In the past 8 years all of that has come to a total halt. Yet, I think my diet is healthy - just not the same as it was for 59 years. Yes, I miss all the spice, seasonings, ethnic dishes terribly. But not much any of us can do. Sometimes at night when the burn is searing, I will go to kitchen freezer and get 1-2 tablespoons of ice cream or frozen yogurt and allow it to melt on my tongue. It's heaven even if only for a brief time.
I also had to stop eating ALL CITRUS, oranges, grapefruit, orange juice, etc. Hope this helps some. I essentially LIVE in the Produce Department for my diet. No sodas, chips, etc. I am sorry you are suffering. This is a terrible condition to have, no cure, no good treatment. At night try to keep ICE CUBES & Water next to your bed with a straw to sip on because my burning is at its worst by nightfall and some ICE water in mouth is soothing. Best... K2Z
Coco lee
8 April 2022
I did my own research because doctors did not help me even after I went to the emergency room. I was donating plasma regularly and I was one of the rare people who got citrate toxicity. When I was at the emergency for a ruptured ovarian cyst I had blood tests done. They gave me no answers as to why my mouth was on fire and dry mouth. I was miserable for 2 1/2 months. Easily he could if seen that I was .2 low on my calcium and that does make a huge difference. I did my research and citrate reaction depletes you from calcium. BMS comes from medication , either switch or different dose. Most commonly comes from a vitamin deficiency. I got myself on 600 mg. Of calcium also D3 helps with not getting kidney stones and K2 it brings the calcium where your body needs it and lots of Jesus. I am already getting better 2 days later. Check if your low on vitamins. Good luck.
Terry370
23 Dec 2019
I take Neurontin (Gabapentin) Xanax and Benadryl which help tremendously. When I first started with the Burning Mouth it was so bad that the inside of my mouth would peel. It truly is the worst pain ever. It hits me worse at night too. I would try these meds, but you may come up with your own regime that works. I just pray that they find a cure!! And soon!
What type of Doctor diagnosed you? It's hard to get a Doctor to believe that this exists.
TerryGibson1959
21 Dec 2019
Stay away from acidic foods anything spicy I just don't eat anything red no chocolate no coffee or tea unless decaffeinated I'm on percocet and sometimes oxys the pain can get that back this happened 2 yrs ago lasted about a month I got my dentures relined this time I'm replacing them I'm told I'm allergic to the resins in the denture cost me 200 more to more a allergy resistant lining over them u have to try and deal with it as it comes most times it's caused by something else bad fitting dentures or acid reflux or gerd are all culprits of BMS good luck
mialynn03
9 Oct 2015
I was diagnosed with BMS by my ENT several years ago and he stated that it was neuropathic mouth pain and sent me on my way!!! Said there is no medication for it. Such a horrid condition! Wake up each day wondering how bad it will be today! Gets worse as the day goes on. I take a powered aspirin everyday at 6pm just to ease the pain. I have the exact same symptoms that you do. It went away once for a few months but then it returned! So glad I have found this support group to see I am not alone. Wishing you the best.
emaret200
14 March 2018
I am also relieved to find a support group for this disorder. It is so frustrating, and anyone who has not suffered from this can understand the pain and frustration. I hope to find a way out on this site someday. Everyone, thanks for your input.
Blum2006
4 Nov 2018
I haven’t been diagnosed but the symptoms I have been having since July of this year add up to it. It has gotten progressively worse. I was wondering how old many of you are? I’ve been reading or more likely affects women in their 50’s going through menopause. I’m only 39 . It’s god awful and unbearable at times. Defiantly ruining my everyday life. I’m a mom of 3 and need to be functionalble. I ready it mostly caused my stress and anxiety. Has anyone hear been cured from it without taking prescription meds? I’m looking for an alternative route. I’m trying accupuncture and CBD oil. Praying this will give me some relieve. I at times get bad pressure feeling in my upper jaw. Anyone else exprecience this?
martha2370
9 Aug 2015
I have had BMS for 6 months now. First diagnoised by my dentist, who was not helpful at all! Then to my internist for a physical. He hadn't heard of it either, but put me on Gabapentin to try, but I hated the drug, it made me feel foggy. I have investigated on the internet, and learned a lot that way. I currently take Cymbalta 60 mg for anxiety and depression, I have been on this med for years!! Just had my hearing tested, by a ear,eye,nose specialist and he was the first doctor that had heard about this dreadful problem!! Actually gave me tips and advice, but also agreed it will last a long time!! Sending me for blood work to see if I have vitamin problems. I agree with another posting, that stress my make it worse. When on vacation, my symptoms got better? Sometimes, in the evenings I take a strong pain pill, dilaudid, which helps. Left over from surgery one year ago!! When they run out, I plan on asking my doctor for a strong pain med to help in the evening!! BMS is not fun and any info is welcome!!!
Barbara Z
28 July 2015
I also have the Primary Burning Mouth Syndrome. As other people have written, clonazepam, an off-label anti-depressant such as Cymbalta (meaning this drug helps to inhibit the nerves firing) and possible Gabapentin work for many I know.
tootsieboy
27 July 2015
I was diagnosed a year ago. I tried everything. We finally decided on the following combination, and knock on wood, my BMS is virtually gone, well not apparent. 300 mg of Gabopentin, 1 mg Clonozepam, and I upped my Zoloft from 100 to 150 mg. I am fine. Try it. Maybe you don't need the Zoloft, but it calms me. Gabopentin is a must. Good luck.
Barbara Z
30 July 2015
I also take 300 mg. of Gabapentin, 30 mg. of Cymbalta (use the genera) but require 0.5 Clonazapem six times per day. I agree the Gabapentin is a must.
satinshoes
10 Aug 2015
I am already taking Gabapentin and am adding the 1 ml of Klonopin. When do u take the Klonopin and how often ?? Does it make you groggy ?
Barbara Z
10 Aug 2015
To Satin Shoes: I take Clonazepam every two hours or so. I wish it were less, but this is what works best for me and it keeps me sane. the dosage is 0.5 mg.
satinshoes
10 Aug 2015
I heard it could make you drowsy, do u have that side effect??
satinshoes
10 Aug 2015
I tried it a long time ago but am willing to try it again. Do u take yours at night? Im desperate !
Barbara Z
10 Aug 2015
When I first started on Clonazepam, I felt tired in the mornings (this after a good night's sleep) That lasted about 3 weeks
Barbara Z
10 Aug 2015
Satin Shoes: My clonazepam of 0.5 mg is every 2 hours; my Gabapentin is three times a day at a dosage of 100 mg. each time. I am told that the Gabapentin is considered a low dose.
satinshoes
10 Aug 2015
Barbara Z
I just joined your group yesterday. Lots of good info. Thank you so much!!
Cdulitz
30 Jan 2020
I tried G. And C. Drugs and all I do is sleep! It is miserable and seems to be getting worse! Cannot find any answers.
Cdulitz
30 Jan 2020
No more problems! You can function all I do on those drugs is sleep. Miserable for sure.
chrisamanor
2 July 2015
Have posted before that very little seems to help with this syndrome, however, I am more and more convinced that it is linked to worry, stress or depression. When I'm on holiday I notice a distinct drop in frequency and severity of pain. As soon as I return to work, it starts getting worse. As mentioned elsewhere, keep trying different things. If your Dr says it's ok, try a low dose of clonazepan. I find it sometimes eases it if I lat an aspirin dissolve in my mouth, again, if your Dr says it's ok try it. I also chew a lot of sugar-free mint gum, this eases it temporarily. My next thing to try is acupuncture. Sounds a bit silly but if it's worry-related it might work. I'll try and report back on here. Other people have said try capsaicin tablets, I've not done that yet. Main thing, Teddi, try and be positive, the more down you get, the worse it gets. Good luck. Keep posting if you have any success!
DianeMoran
23 Dec 2019
I agree totally about BMS being stress activated. I am on low dose clonozopan .5mg per day. It has helped somewhat. Have had this going on 9 years. Medicated for 4 years. Im 60 yrs. old. Hopefully if I can ever retire, it will disappear. Good luck to all of you suffering this condition.
Cdulitz
30 Jan 2020
I have had It for two yrs. Tried so so many things and nothing works! I have had 0 dental work. I am 75 yrs. old and don’t feel i am under any real stress but it seems to be getting worse. Maybe it is what is causing me stress——MISERABLE! Hard to eat when everything sticks to my teeth. Maybe acupuncture but from what I have read it hasn’t seemed to work for anyone.
Coco lee
8 April 2022
Get your blood drawn I was low on calcium and did my own research because doctors didn’t help me. I figured it out myself . I was low on calcium. Started taking that 600 mg and K2 with it and D3 and two days later thank the Lord mine is almost gone after two days. I had it bad for 2 1/2 months crying everyday miserable. Hope this helps also can come from medication. Mostly from lack of vitamins.
Related topics
burning mouth syndrome, food, burning, mouth, syndrome, burning mouth, diagnosis
Similar questions
Search for questions
Still looking for answers? Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question.
