are hurting gums and tongue symptoms of hormone imbalance?
Women who take certain birth control pills that contain progesterone, which increases the level of that hormone in the body, may experience inflamed gum tissues due to the body's exaggerated reaction to the toxins produced from plaque. Tell your dentist if you are taking an oral contraceptive. Hot flashes are mostly caused by the hormonal changes of menopause, but can also be affected by lifestyle and medications. A diminished level of estrogen has a direct effect on the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for controlling your appetite, sleep cycles, sex hormones, and body temperature. Puberty. The surge in production of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone that occurs during puberty can increase the blood flow to the gums and change the way gum tissue reacts to irritants in plaque, causing the gum tissue to become red, tender, swollen, and more likely to bleed during brushing and flossing. Though not often talked about, many suffer the symptoms of burning mouth and tongue at some point in their lives, the majority of whom are women going through menopause. Despite all the uncertainties surrounding burning mouth and tongue, there are ways to find relief. The first step is to reach out to a doctor or dentist if symptoms last for more than a few days to find out if there are any other disorders underlying the sensation. If hormonal imbalance is the culprit, lifestyle changes like a healthier diet and herbal supplements like Macafem can help regain equilibrium without a prescription. For serious cases, sometimes antidepressants are used to numb the mouth and tongue, but scientific opinions vary on their safety and effectiveness. Causes Can Be Internal or External. The most common cause of burning mouth and tongue is hormonal imbalance. Estrogen, which affects saliva production as well as the bitter taste buds found toward the back of the tongue, is needed to keep oral processes working properly. When levels of the hormone dip, this can cause that uncomfortable 'dry mouth' feeling. Other internal factors may include nutritional deficiencies, like a lack of vitamin B12 or iron, or diseases like diabetes. Though less reported, external factors also exist that might lead to burning mouth or tongue. Women may be more susceptible to oral health problems because of the unique hormonal changes they experience. Hormones affect not only the blood supply to the gum tissue but also the body's response to the toxins (poisons) that result from plaque buildup. As a result of these changes, women are more prone to the development of periodontal disease at certain stages of their lives, as well as to other oral health problems. Due to the hormonal changes (particularly the increase in progesterone) that occur during the menstrual cycle, some women experience oral changes that can include bright red swollen gums, swollen salivary glands, development of canker sores, or bleeding gums.
Yes