Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) - Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Dry mouth, caused by inadequate saliva, is a common problem, especially among elderly people. Besides being unpleasant, inadequate salivation can increase the frequency of tooth decay since saliva contains substances that kill tooth-destroying bacteria and the saliva itself also washes the bacteria away. Saliva also reduces swelling inside the mouth, inflammation, pain, and persistent sores. Food tastes and oral functions such as talking, chewing, and swallowing are often affected.

Xerostomia is caused by several illnesses, including Sjogren Syndrome. X rays and drugs, including antihistamines and anticholingergics, can also dry out the mouth. Persons who feel that their mouths are drier than normal should consult a physician, who can determine appropriate remedies.

Doctors advise dry-mouth patients to drink water frequently or suck on pieces of ice. For some sufferers, chewing stimulates salivary flow. Patients are also usually encouraged to nibble on carrots, celery, and other chewy foods and to chew sugarless gum which does not cause dental cavities.

For many sufferers, saliva substitutes may be the only recourse other man frequently sipping water. Several drug preparation are available without prescription which provide transient relief. Some are water-based or glycerin-based fluids or sprays. Other contains polymers such as sodium carboxymethylcelulose or hydroxymthylcellulose that bind and hold moisture. These saliva substitutes also may contain other ingredients, including electrolytes.