Dr. R. Barghavi Balakumar

Dry mouth or Xerostomia is characterized by the drying of the mouth as a result of reduced saliva secretion. Secretion of an adequate amount of saliva helps in chewing & swallowing of food which in turn creates a healthy oral cavity. A recent study showed that women have more chances of getting a dry mouth as compared to men. If not diagnosed on time, dry mouth might lead to mouth infections, severe damage to the teeth enamel and gingivitis.

The symptoms of dry mouth include, but are not limited to:

• Craving for water in regular intervals.
• Swollen tongue.
• Dry eye.
• Significant trouble while swallowing, speaking or chewing along with disturbing bad breath.
• Severe headaches and formations of ulcers in the mouth

Causes:
1. This condition might occur as a side effect of:
a. Other serious conditions such as GERD, Alzheimer's disease, HIV/AIDS etc.
b. Side effects of medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy; this might result in significant damage to the salivary glands.
c. Side effects of drugs prescribed for diarrhea, nausea, asthma, obesity, depression, Parkinson's disease etc.

2. Abnormal consumption of marijuana, crystal methamphetamine and tobacco might cause dry mouth.

3. It can occur during pregnancy and breastfeeding, dry mouth can be a common occurrence because of acute dehydration.

4. Sleep apnea, snoring and breathing through your mouth instead of the nose on a daily basis might induce dry mouth.

5. Severe damage to the nerves might result in dry mouth conditions.

Treatment:

1. A healthy amount of water consumption, about 3 liters every day, will help to keep the mouth wet.
2. Application of toothpaste and mouthwashes containing fluoride twice a day will help to keep the mouth moist.
3. You should change the dosages of medicines after consulting your doctor if Xerostomia is primarily occurring as a result of side effect of the drugs.
4. Prescribed dosage of medicines such as "Pilocarpine" might induce increased saliva secretion.
5. Try breathing through the nose instead of your mouth to avoid Xerostomia.