What are some common causes?
Nerve damage or injury is often seen in diabetes or after an injury to the nerve. Certain viral and bacterial infections can cause nerve damage and symptoms of burning and pain. Dermatitis Shingles or allergic reactions can cause burning sensation. Conditions that lead to poor circulation like peripheral artery disease can reduce blood flow to the limbs and can cause a burning sensation. Fibromyalgia is a chronic innocuous disease that can lead to a burning sensation. Lack of Vitamin B12 is a common cause of a burning sensation. Reduced blood supply in the thalamus of the brain can lead to severe pain on the opposite side of the body.
What about a burning sensation in the genitals?
This is a common phenomenon. The commonest cause is infection in both genders. Sexually transmitted infections are the second most common cause. Individuals with enlarged prostate, kidney stones and diabetes are more susceptible. Yeast infections are common in individuals with diabetes in both genders.
What about a burning sensation in the throat?
Bacterial and viral infections are commonly associated with these symptoms. However certain vitamin deficiencies, iron deficiency and anaemia are equally important. Acid reflux from stomach to the throat can cause a burning sensation in the throat or behind the chest. Certain autoimmune diseases, swelling of the gums due to infections or certain drugs can be equally responsible.
What are the treatment options?
Ideally finding out the cause is most prudent. Treatment of diabetes or vitamin deficiencies should be optimised. Smoking and excess alcohol consumption should be avoided. Treatment of the cause and various other supportive measures are easily available to reduce symptoms.
When should the burning sensation in the body be considered serious?
At times this may be associated with severe uncontrolled diabetes, there could be certain blood disorders like myeloma or very high haemoglobin levels. Underlying liver and kidney functions need to be optimised. Certain autoimmune diseases may require proper management.
What about burning pain on the skin after shingles or herpes zoster?
Herpes zoster can be easily prevented by a vaccine. This is advised in individuals above 60 years. Burning pain generally gets magnified after the skin lesions heal. Specific medications are available to mitigate these symptoms. The symptoms are worse in the elderly and if the antiviral drugs are administered late.
What is peripheral neuropathy and how is it managed?
The symptoms include a burning sensation on the toes or soles and palms. There is a sensation of tingling and numbness. At times the pain at night is so severe that the person is unable to sleep. Your doctor will look after your medical history. This may include your diet, alcohol intake, life style and exposure to toxins. A detailed neurological examination will be carried out. Certain blood tests for diabetes, Vitamin B 12 and D nutritional anaemia, myeloma and autoimmune disorders would be required. CT or MRI of the spine may be required to see for compression of the nerves. Electromyography or nerve conduction studies may be required. A nerve or skin biopsy may be required in certain cases.