Also called xerostomia, dry mouth is a condition in which your salivary glands fail to produce enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. Symptoms of dry mouth include the feeling of your saliva being sticky, difficulty in swallowing and speaking, soreness in the mouth, redness and shininess of the mouth, and a sense of burning with sensitivity to certain foods. If you experience dry mouth and its symptoms for a prolonged period, consult a doctor about your condition.
Causes
The most common cause of dry mouth is medication. Medications known to have the side effect of dry mouth include those for overactive bladder, high blood pressure and depression. Radiotherapy and other cancer treatments may also cause dry mouth. Parkinson's disease, Sjogren's syndrome, lupus and diabetes can cause dry mouth as well.
Women With Dry Mouth
Women are likely to experience dry mouth if they are going through menopause, or are taking Hormone Replacement Therapy drugs. Women with diabetes are also particularly prone to develop the condition. As a woman's hormones change during pregnancy, she may urinate with increased frequency and develop dry mouth. It is also common for women to have dry mouth simply because they are becoming old.
Danger
Not only is dry mouth an uncomfortable condition, but it presents dangers to your mouth, gum and teeth. Saliva helps break down food and fights bacteria and acids. The less saliva you produce, the more likely you are to experience tooth decay and gum disease. Dry mouth can also affect speech, ease of chewing and swallowing, and taste of food. Regular visits to the dentist and treatments are vital if you suffer from chronic dry mouth
Relief
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can relieve symptoms of dry mouth. However, if your dry mouth is due to overactive bladder medication, increased intake of water may increase symptoms of your overactive bladder. Chewing sugar-free gum will prevent tooth decay and stimulate your salivary glands to produce saliva. Brushing with fluoride or "total care" toothpaste will also fight tooth decay and plaque.
Treatment
Treatment options for dry mouth depend on what is causing it. If your dry mouth is a side effect of your medication, your doctor may readjust your medication and dosage. A doctor may prescribe pilocarpine or cevimeline to help stimulate saliva production. Women who experience dry mouth due to menopause can use topical moisturizers for the mouth.
