Learn about dry mouth (xerostomia) including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Get expert advice and care tips on Meri Sehat.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Overview

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, refers to a lack of adequate saliva in the mouth. 
&nbsp;

Dry mouth is a common issue that affects people of all ages, but it is particularly prevalent among older adults. It&#39;s estimated that about 10% of the general population and 25% of people aged 65 and older experience dry mouth.<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>

It&rsquo;s mostly just a symptom of another underlying condition, and not a serious condition on its own. The condition can be classified as temporary or chronic. Temporary dry mouth causes are often stress, dehydration, or medications, whereas chronically, the condition is associated with long-term medication use or underlying health conditions.<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>

It can significantly impact a person&#39;s quality of life by causing difficulties in relatively simple tasks like speaking, eating, and swallowing. This can affect the person&rsquo;s confidence and self-esteem, in addition to more serious dental and oral health problems. 
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Sign and Symptom

An individual with a dry mouth is likely to experience a burning or tingling sensation in the mouth, increased thirst, sore throat, and dry nasal passages. Dry mouth symptoms also include:<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>

<ul>
	<li>Sores, especially around the corners of the mouth</li>
	<li>Cracked lips</li>
	<li>Dry and rough tongue</li>
	<li>Bad breath</li>
	<li>Thick saliva 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Causes

These include:<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>

<ul>
	<li>Several medications, including over-the-counter drugs, can cause dry mouth. Common culprits include antihistamines, decongestants, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and medications for high <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/blood-pressure">blood pressure</a>.</li>
	<li>Chemotherapy drugs can change the nature and production of saliva. Radiation treatments to the head and neck in particular can damage salivary glands.</li>
	<li>Injury, <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/stroke">stroke</a>, infection, or surgery that causes nerve damage in the head and neck area can result in dry mouth. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Diagnosis

Doctors usually begin by reviewing the individual&rsquo;s medical history to diagnose dry mouth. They may also perform tests such as:<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>

<ul>
	<li>Sialometry &ndash; To measure saliva flow</li>
	<li>Sialography &ndash; To check the salivary glands and identify salivary gland masses or stones</li>
	<li>Biopsy &ndash; To check a small sample of salivary gland tissue 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Treatment

Saliva is crucial for moistening and cleansing the mouth, aiding digestion, and preventing infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth. Treatment for dry mouth is usually based on its cause.

For instance, if medications are the cause, the doctor might adjust the dosage or switch to a different drug. They may recommend OTC saliva substitutes (e.g., mouth sprays) or medications (e.g., pilocarpine or cevimeline) to stimulate the production of saliva. Additionally, individuals are encouraged to practice good oral hygiene and to be well-hydrated. 
&nbsp;

These include:

<ul>
	<li>Tooth decay, increased plaque, and gum disease</li>
	<li>Mouth sores</li>
	<li>Oral thrush</li>
	<li>Poor nutrition from difficulty chewing and swallowing</li>
	<li>Difficulty speaking 
	 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

These include:

<ul>
	<li>Individual health, especially conditions like Sj&ouml;gren&#39;s syndrome, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and Parkinson&#39;s disease</li>
	<li>Aging, with the elderly being more affected</li>
	<li>Lifestyle factors such as smoking, not drinking enough water, chewing tobacco, and breathing or sleeping with mouth open 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

These include:

<ul>
	<li>Drink plenty of water.</li>
	<li>Avoid caffeine, tobacco products, spicy foods, and sugary drinks.</li>
	<li>Use a humidifier.</li>
	<li>Practice good oral hygiene &ndash; regular brushing, flossing, and fluoride rinses.</li>
	<li>Suck or chew sugar-free candies and gum. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Key Points

<ul>
	<li>Dry mouth is a common condition that can significantly impact daily life and oral health.</li>
	<li>Age and underlying health conditions are usually the risk factors of a dry mouth.</li>
	<li>&nbsp;Medication may be a causative factor as well.</li>
	<li>Dry mouth symptoms include a burning or tingling sensation in the mouth, frequent thirst, and bad breath.</li>
	<li>Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and stimulating saliva production.</li>
	<li>Good oral hygiene and staying hydrated are crucial preventive measures.</li>
</ul>