[33F] With burning tongue, swollen tonsils, and rash

Patient Description

A 33-year-old female presents with a burning sensation on the tongue persisting for 4-5 weeks, accompanied by swollen tonsils, throat pain, canker sores in the mouth, and a rash on the chest. The patient reports a constant burning sensation on the tongue, with no relief from any interventions. She also notes white flecks in her stool and occasional difficulty swallowing. The patient has a history of Chiari malformation diagnosed in 2016 and is currently taking prednisone, which was prescribed to manage her symptoms, although the underlying condition remains undiagnosed. Her medication regimen includes Prazosin, Sertraline, Wellbutrin, Metoprolol, and Amlodipine. She has a known allergy to certain medications but did not specify which ones. There is no recent travel history or exposure to new environments, and no family history of autoimmune diseases was reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few potential explanations:

  1. Oral Thrush (Candidiasis): The white flecks in your stool, burning tongue, swollen tonsils, and canker sores could suggest a yeast infection in your mouth, known as oral thrush. This can occur when the balance of bacteria in your mouth is disrupted, often due to medications like prednisone, which can suppress your immune system.

  2. Burning Mouth Syndrome: This condition can cause a burning sensation in the mouth, often accompanied by changes in taste. It can be triggered by stress, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal changes.

  3. Allergic Reaction or Sensitivity: The rash on your chest and burning tongue might indicate an allergic reaction or sensitivity to a medication or food.

  4. Gastrointestinal Issues: The white flecks in your stool could be undigested food or mucus, which might indicate a digestive issue.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. They may recommend tests such as a throat swab, blood tests, or stool analysis to determine the cause of your symptoms.

What you can do

Burning Tongue and Oral Symptoms:

  • Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and using an antibacterial mouthwash.
  • Avoid spicy, acidic, or hot foods that might irritate your mouth.
  • Stay hydrated and consider sucking on ice chips to soothe your tongue.
  • Consult your doctor about your symptoms, especially if they persist, as they may prescribe antifungal medication if oral thrush is suspected.

Swollen Tonsils and Throat Pain:

  • Gargle with warm salt water several times a day to reduce swelling and discomfort.
  • Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain.
  • Seek medical advice if your symptoms worsen or if you experience difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Rash on Chest:

  • Avoid scratching the rash to prevent infection.
  • Apply a gentle moisturizer or anti-itch cream to soothe the skin.
  • If the rash persists or spreads, consult a healthcare provider.

Digestive Symptoms:

  • Keep a food diary to track any foods that might be causing digestive issues.
  • Ensure a balanced diet with plenty of fiber to support digestive health.
  • Discuss your symptoms with a doctor, especially if you notice changes in bowel habits or persistent abdominal pain.

Consider using MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share insights with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • High fever or signs of infection
  • Rash that spreads rapidly or becomes painful

Remember, while I can provide information, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

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People Also Ask


What could be causing a burning sensation on the tongue?

A burning sensation on the tongue can be caused by conditions such as oral thrush, burning mouth syndrome, nutritional deficiencies, or allergic reactions. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.


How can oral thrush be treated or managed?

Oral thrush can be treated with antifungal medications prescribed by a doctor. Maintaining good oral hygiene, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and avoiding irritants like spicy or acidic foods can also help manage symptoms.


What are the potential side effects of taking prednisone?

Prednisone can suppress the immune system, leading to increased susceptibility to infections like oral thrush. Other side effects may include weight gain, mood changes, and increased blood pressure. It's important to follow a doctor's guidance when taking prednisone.


What might white flecks in stool indicate?

White flecks in stool could indicate undigested food, mucus, or a digestive issue. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain or changes in bowel habits.

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