[njm6654]

I have just been diagnosed as having BMS (Burning Mouth Syndrome). But it does not involve just my mouth, so I think that diagnosis may not be accurate.
It also involves my nose, eyes and ears and sometimes the soles of my feet, tips of my fingers and random places on back or hips. I have had blood tests, urine analysis, brain MRI, EMG and cultures. I am currently on 800 mg of Gabapentin a day ( 400 am , 400 pm) It keeps it under control for about 6 of my waking hours. By about 1 pm each day it really kicks in. I am a teacher and it is hard to concentrate and keep talking. It is also necessary for me to correct papers, work on my webpage, and email parents at night but I can not work at my normal pace so I am falling behind. The only reason I have time to correspond now is that I have the flu and am home!
I am looking for anyone who has had a similar condition.

[mrsD]

Welcome to NeuroTalk:

There are two possible things to try for your problem.
Then you really should come to our Peripheral Neuropathy forum for further ideas.

http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum20.html

1) Have you had your B12 tested? You should be at least 400 US units... labs in US are still reporting low levels as "normal" so they don't flag these for the doctor...Therefore get your numbers! Don't accept "normal" . We have a complete thread on PN at the top of the page -- all about B12. Many people in US today are low in this and are not being caught by doctors accurately.

2) Lipoic acid has been used in burning mouth. We discuss this useful supplement on our PN forum often.

Also you may be intolerant of some foods you are eating.
1) gluten is the main culprit. Going gluten free may help.
2) other foods can cause this too. Nightshade veggies and peppers can cause all sorts of burning sensations in those sensitive to them.

Also impaired glucose tolerance is a possibility and precedes actual diabetes. Cutting out sugar and refined carbs, and eating more veggies and lean protein may help.

Also...an ingredient in mouthwashes and toothpastes, may be causing this. It is called triclosan, and there are recent reports on it concerning it causing nerve damage and other toxicities.
Find a new toothpaste without it. an example is Colgate Total, but many many other brands have now added this chemical.
It can be very irritating to some people.

Stop using mints/ sugarless gum, etc for a while and see if that helps.

[Darlene]

njm6654,

It is great to have you come and be with us. You will fine a great number of dear friends to listen when you are in need of ears. Please, just let us know how we can help you out. You will find out we are supportive and relaxing place.

Please keep us up to date on your situation. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

[Rrae]

Welcome to NT!

You've come to a wonderful place of support and understanding!
There are many caring people here, easy to talk to, and very down-to-earth, so make yourself right at home. Look through the different forums and post anywhere you feel inclined.
MrsD has pointed you to the PN forum. It is loaded with alot of helpful information!

Just holler if you have any questions or need help in finding your way around.

It's great to have you!

Caring,
Rae