Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
If you take antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, or a number of other drugs, you may have experienced dry mouth. It can be a simple lack of saliva, or your saliva may feel thick and stringy. Side effects of medication are the most common cause of dry mouth.
Because of this, you may need to talk to your doctor if dry mouth is severe. Treatment may involve changing to a different medicine, or your doctor may prescribe a medicine that stimulates saliva production.
Recently Answered
- Q What lifestyle changes should I make if I have dry mouth?
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If you suffer from dry mouth, you may find that fequent, small sips of water can help alleviate the condition.Taking care of your teeth and gums and regular dental visits are important when living with dry mouth. Without the cleansing effects of... Full Answer
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- Q How common is dry mouth?
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Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is very common, In fact, everyone’s mouth can be dry sometimes. However, if you feel like your mouth is always dry, it may be time to seek treatment. A dentist will check your teeth for signs of decay that... Full Answer
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- Q How does dry mouth lead to bad breath?
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Dry mouth can lead to bad breath. Constant dryness and the lack of protection provided by saliva contribute to bad breath. Adequate salivary flow lubricates oral tissues, cleanses the mouth and begins the digestive process as foods are chewed. Dry mouth... Full Answer
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- Q What activities should someone with dry mouth avoid?
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If you have dry mouth, it is recommended to avoid irritants, such as alcohol, tobacco and caffeine drinks, such as soda, coffee and tea. Eating salty or spicy foods can also be an irritant. In addition, there are more than 400 drugs that have a side... Full Answer
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- Q How does dry mouth affect the body?
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For some people, dry mouth is an occasional condition. For others, dry mouth can be constant and includes more serious symptoms such as sore throat, burning sensation, problems speaking, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or dry nasal passages. Left... Full Answer
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- Q Is there a vaccine for dry mouth?
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There is no vaccine for dry mouth, a condition that creates unusual dryness in the mouth, but you can help prevent it by avoiding the things that cause it. Try not to use too many antihistamines or cold medicines because they can lead to dry mouth. If a... Full Answer
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- Q Who is most at risk for dry mouth?
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There are many causes for dry mouth, including side effects from common over-the-counter and prescription medications. Dry mouth is a potential side effect of 400 medications. It can also be caused by radiation treatment for head and neck cancers. In... Full Answer
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- Q How do medications treat dry mouth?
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Frequent small sips of water can alleviate dry mouth. Sugar-free candy or gum stimulates saliva flow, and moisture can be replaced by using artificial saliva and oral rinses. You can ask your dentist to recommend an artificial saliva. There are also... Full Answer
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- Q How do I manage my dry mouth on a daily basis?
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Frequent small sips of water can alleviate dry mouth. Sugar-free candy or gum stimulate saliva flow, and moisture can be replaced by using artificial saliva and oral rinses. There are also prescription medications available to treat dry mouth. Taking... Full Answer
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- Q What can I do about dry mouth?
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To help alleviate dry mouth, visit your dentist, who can help diagnose the problem and offer solutions. Other remedies include: using artificial saliva to keep oral tissues moist sugar-free gum or candy (to stimulate salivary flow) frequent sips of... Full Answer
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