Your testosterone levels are low, and your doctor has prescribed replacement therapy. You're not alone. Millions of men and women take testosterone for a variety of reasons. Unfortunately, the hormone can come with the unpleasant side effect of dry mouth. Don't despair. It's not serious, and you can manage the new condition.
What is Dry Mouth?
Testosterone pills or gels may cause a lack of saliva, which not only feels uncomfortable, but also makes it tough to speak, taste and swallow. Other symptoms of malfunctioning salivary glands include dry throat, dry tongue, cracked lips and mouth sores.
Cause
You may be able to link the arrival of dry mouth to the start of your testosterone therapy. However, MayoClinic.com reports that dry mouth is only a minor side effect of testosterone, along with gum and mouth irritation. In fact, more than 400 medications can cause the salivary glands to produce less saliva. Cancer treatments and many diseases, such as HIV, diabetes and Sjogren's syndrome, can also cause dry mouth.
Risks
Dry mouth is not just uncomfortable. It can cause real damage. This is because saliva is your mouth's natural cleaning system. Without saliva, you are at an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Saliva is also the secret ingredient that makes eating and drinking possible; it is the lubricant that helps you chew and swallow. It also helps you digest your food properly.
Treatment
Tell your doctor about your dry mouth as soon as possible, so he can determine if there's an underlying cause or not. If the cause is the testosterone you're taking, your doctor may change your dosage or have you stop treatment temporarily. Your physician can also prescribe artificial saliva products that come in a spray form, as well as prescription drugs, such as Salagen, to stimulate the saliva glands.
Fighting Back
You can lessen the discomfort of dry mouth by taking certain steps. Fluids, particularly water, help keep the dry feeling away and also loosen mucus. Avoid drinks with caffeine and alcohol as well as acidic fruit juices like orange and apple, because these can further dry the mouth. Add liquids, such as broth and sauces, to your food to assist your chewing and swallowing. Sucking on hard candies or ice chips also can stimulate saliva production.
