Dry mouth is more than just the occasional need to drink more water or suck on a cough drop -- it's a health condition marked by several symptoms that can lead to larger problems such as gum disease. There's no direct relationship between testosterone and dry mouth, but taking the hormone can produce dry mouth as a side effect.
Testosterone Side Effects
Dry mouth is listed by the Mayo Clinic as a "less common" side effect of testosterone use. However, it is not a sign of overdose, and the dry mouth should go away on its own -- along with other symptoms such as gum or mouth irritation, cough, diarrhea and hoarseness. Seek help right away if you experience severe headache, blurred vision, weakness on one side of the body, seizures, inability to speak or slurred speech. These are overdose symptoms and require immediate medical attention.
Other Causes
According to the Mayo Clinic, other causes of dry mouth include cancer therapy, nerve damage, tobacco use, Sjogren's syndrome, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, HIV/AIDS, anxiety disorders and depression. Many over-the-counter and prescription medications, including testosterone, can cause dry mouth as well. Older people are more likely to have conditions or be taking medications that cause dry mouth.
Other Symptoms
Along with the obvious dry feeling in the mouth, other symptoms of the conditions include thick and stringy saliva, mouth sores, cracked lips, bad breath, difficulty talking or swallowing, sore throat and an altered sense of taste. Fungal infections, tooth decay and gum disease can occur in conjunction with or because of dry mouth. If you have several of these symptoms for a prolonged period, see a doctor or dentist for a diagnosis.
Treatment
If your doctor determines your testosterone medication is causing dry mouth, you may have to change your dosage or stop taking it temporarily. Certain medications can also help stimulate saliva production, including pilocarpine and cevimeline. The Mayo Clinic also recommends sipping water, chewing sugar-free gum and breathing through your nose to keep your mouth hydrated. Limit your intake of caffeine, sugar, tobacco and acidic foods -- and use toothpaste and mouth rinse containing fluoride to protect your teeth from decay. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash.
