Dry mouth, known as xerostomia, is a medical condition that occurs when the mouth is not able to produce enough saliva. In some cases, saliva production is reduced and, in more extreme cases, saliva flow is absent.
Dry mouth is an uncomfortable condition for sufferers and creates a number of symptoms:
Cracking of the lips of corners of the mouth- Mouth dryness
- Bad breath
- Increased fungal infections in the mouth
- Swollen or painful tongue
- More plaque buildup and tooth decay
- Changes in taste
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing food
- Sore throat
- Increased need to drink water
Unfortunately, dry mouth is a common problem. Although it’s more usual condition for the elderly, xerostomia isn’t considered a normal part of aging. There are many causes of dry mouth that can affect all ages.
Medications and Prescriptions
A wide range of prescriptions and over-the-counter medications can cause dry mouth. These include allergy medications (such as antihistamines), decongestants, high blood pressure medication, muscle relaxants, urinary continence medicine, disease treatments, and antidepressants.
Cancer Treatment
Treatment of neck and head cancers can affect the salivary glands and lead to dry mouth. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy both alter saliva production and can reduce the amount of saliva the body can produce.
Nerve Damage
Head or neck injuries and surgeries can cause nerve damage in the neck and head area. One result can often be dry mouth.
Tobacco and Smoking
Any smoking can irritate the soft tissue lining in the mouth and cause dry mouth. Chewing tobacco also aggravates saliva glands and can increase the risk of a reduction in saliva production.
Health Conditions
There are several health conditions, or health treatment regimens that can cause dry mouth. Poorly controlled diabetes, anxiety disorders, depression, and HIV/AIDs can cause dry mouth. Sleeping disorders, snoring, and sleeping with an open mouth can result in xerostomia.
If you believe you may be suffering from dry mouth, talk to your doctor or dentist. Simple procedures exist to determine the rate of saliva production and flow. Symptoms may not always be as obvious as you might think, so a professional assessment is required. Treatment is available depending on the cause and severity of any dry mouth condition.
