I Am Feeling Dry Mouth

• Thick or stringy saliva
• Rough, dry tongue
• Tongue sticking against the roof of the mouth, lips, or cheeks sticking to gums
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing, especially dry foods
• Bad breath
• Mouth ulcers
• Dry and cracked lips
• Susceptibility to oral thrush infections
• High rate of tooth decay
• Prickly, burning sensation in the mouth
• Loose acrylic dentures due to reduced saliva aiding suction

Related Symptoms:

• Dry and itchy eyes
• Dry nose or throat
• Frequent coughing
• Reduced sense of smell
• Constipation
• Joint pains or stiffness
• General feeling of being unwell
• Interrupted or poor-quality sleep
• Unexplained weight loss
• In women, frequent vaginal thrush infections

Causes of Dry Mouth

• Various factors, both short-term and long-term, can disrupt saliva production, including:
  • Drugs and medications: Approximately 600 drugs and medications, legal and illegal, can lead to dry mouth. Examples include antihistamines, high blood pressure medications, sedatives, decongestants, analgesics, antidepressants, and illicit substances like cocaine.
  • Infections: Bacterial or viral infections of the salivary glands, such as mumps, can cause inflammation and restrict saliva production.
  • Sjogren’s syndrome: An autoimmune disease primarily affecting the eyes and salivary glands, but can also involve the sweat glands.
  • Salivary duct blockages: Tiny stones made from saliva minerals can lodge in the salivary ducts, impeding saliva flow.
  • Certain medical conditions: AIDS, amyloidosis, cerebral palsy, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, primary biliary cirrhosis, and lupus can contribute to dry mouth.
  • Nerve problems: Damage or injury to facial nerves controlling salivary gland function can reduce saliva production.
  • Some cancer treatments: Chemotherapy or radiation therapy targeting the head or neck area may temporarily reduce salivary gland function.
  • Other causes: Mouth breathing due to persistent nasal congestion, hormone changes from pregnancy or menopause, and dehydration from insufficient fluid intake can also lead to dry mouth.

Treatment of Dry Mouth:

• Treatment strategies vary based on the underlying cause and may include:
  • Adjustments to medications: Healthcare providers may modify dosages or prescribe alternative medications if dry mouth is a side effect.
  • Saliva substitutes: Artificial saliva substitutes can be prescribed by doctors or dentists and should be used as directed.
  • Dry mouth products: These include toothpaste, mouthwash, gums, and topical gels containing lubricants to alleviate dry mouth symptoms. Dentists can offer recommendations.
  • Dental products: Products with high fluoride or calcium content can help prevent tooth decay. Dentists can provide guidance on suitable options.
  • Antibiotics and antifungal drugs: These medications may be necessary to treat underlying infections contributing to dry mouth.
  • Surgery: Minor surgical procedures may be required to address salivary gland blockages, such as the removal of stones.
  • Additional treatments: Management of underlying conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome or diabetes requires appropriate medical interventions.