Dry mouth
Overview
Dry mouth is a condition where the salivary glands don't produce enough saliva, resulting in a persistent feeling of dryness in the mouth. This symptom can cause difficulty swallowing, speaking, or tasting food and may be accompanied by a sticky or thick feeling in the mouth.
Common Causes
Dry mouth commonly occurs due to dehydration, especially when you haven't been drinking enough water throughout the day. Many medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, can reduce saliva production as a side effect. Breathing through your mouth while sleeping, often due to nasal congestion or sleep apnea, can also leave you waking up with a dry mouth. Stress and anxiety can temporarily decrease saliva flow, while consuming alcohol, caffeine, or tobacco products can contribute to mouth dryness. As we age, our saliva glands naturally produce less moisture, making dry mouth more common in older adults.
Severity Levels
Mild: You may notice occasional dryness, especially when waking up or during stressful situations. Drinking water or chewing gum usually provides relief, and daily activities remain largely unaffected.
Moderate: Dryness occurs more frequently throughout the day and may interfere with eating certain foods or speaking for extended periods. You might need to drink water more often or use sugar-free lozenges for comfort.
Severe: Persistent dryness significantly impacts your daily life, making it difficult to eat, swallow, or speak comfortably. You may experience frequent thirst, difficulty wearing dentures, or changes in taste, requiring medical evaluation and specialized treatments.
Medical Attention
Seek medical attention if dry mouth persists for more than a few days without an obvious cause like medication or dehydration. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe difficulty swallowing, signs of oral infection such as white patches or sores, or if the condition significantly interferes with eating or speaking. You should also consult a healthcare provider if dry mouth occurs alongside other concerning symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss.
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