Q: I am 60 years old male. I am not able to eat red/green chillies and spicy food. Since past six months I cannot tolerate any chilly or spices as it instantly develops burning in my mouth. Washing mouth does not help. I chew tobacco. I frequently develop ulcers in throat. No carcinoma detected and doctors do not find any clinical abnormalities.

A:You may have mucositis (inflammation of the lining of the mouth). Firstly, you have to stop chewing tobacco. This is likely to be a major reason for your problem. Also all other forms of irritant foods need to be reduced - spices, tea, etc. You should have a thorough check-up to exclude pre-cancerous changes. Treatment is supportive with vitamin supplements, and local application of medication over a long period of time to allow for reversal of changes.