Have you been feeling thirsty all the time, even after drinking enough water? Do you have difficulty speaking or swallowing due to a dry mouth? If you answered yes to these questions, then you may be experiencing dry mouth, also known as xerostomia.

What causes dry mouth?

Dry mouth occurs when there isn’t enough saliva in your mouth. Saliva is essential for moistening and cleansing your mouth, digesting food, and preventing infections by controlling bacteria and fungi in your mouth.

A decrease in saliva production can be caused by various factors, including:.

Dehydration
Side effects of medication
Radiotherapy to the head and neck area
Autoimmune diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome
Nerve damage
Chemotherapy drugs
Smoking or tobacco use

What are the remedies for dry mouth?

There are several remedies that can help relieve dry mouth symptoms:.

Stay hydrated

Keeping yourself hydrated is essential if you have dry mouth. Drink plenty of water and carry a water bottle with you at all times. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks as they can dehydrate you even more.

Use a humidifier

Using a humidifier can help keep the air in your room moist, especially when you sleep at night. A humidifier can also help relieve symptoms of snoring, sinus problems, and dry eyes.

Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candy

Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy can stimulate salivary flow. Xylitol, a natural sweetener found in some sugar-free gums and candies, can also help prevent tooth decay.

Practice good oral hygiene

Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day. Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride and has no alcohol as alcohol can further dry out your mouth.

Avoid tobacco and alcohol

Tobacco and alcohol can cause dehydration and further damage your mouth and teeth. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can help relieve dry mouth symptoms.

Take medication as directed

If medication is causing your dry mouth, talk to your doctor about alternative medications or adjusting your dosage. Do not stop taking medication without consulting your doctor as it may be essential for your health.

Saliva substitutes or medication

If the above remedies do not work, you may use artificial saliva or medication that stimulates salivary flow. Your doctor or dentist may prescribe these for you.

Conclusion

Dry mouth can be a mild inconvenience or a severe condition that affects your overall health. Understanding its causes and remedies can help you relieve its symptoms and prevent further complications.

If you have persistent dry mouth symptoms, talk to your doctor or dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.