Xerostomia

Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is a medical condition characterized by a decrease in the production of saliva. This can lead to a range of symptoms and complications, including difficulty swallowing, speaking, and tasting food.

Causes

• Medications: Many medications can cause xerostomia as a side effect, including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications.
• Aging: Saliva production tends to decrease with age, making older adults more prone to xerostomia.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Sjögren's syndrome, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause xerostomia.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy to the head and neck can damage the salivary glands, leading to xerostomia.
• Nerve Damage: Damage to the nerves that control saliva production can also cause xerostomia.

Symptoms

• Dryness or stickiness in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Difficulty speaking (dysarthria)
• Changes in taste or smell
• Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease
• Cracked lips and mouth sores

Diagnosis

Xerostomia is typically diagnosed based on a physical examination, medical history, and symptoms. A doctor may also perform tests to measure saliva production, such as:

• Sialometry: Measures the amount of saliva produced over a certain period.
• Saliva flow test: Measures the rate at which saliva flows into the mouth.

Treatment

Treatment for xerostomia depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Medications: Cholinergic agents, such as pilocarpine, can stimulate saliva production.
• Saliva substitutes: Artificial saliva products can help moisturize the mouth and relieve symptoms.
• Good oral hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
• Stimulating saliva production: Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy can stimulate saliva production.

Complications

If left untreated, xerostomia can lead to a range of complications, including:

• Tooth decay and gum disease: Decreased saliva production can increase the risk of oral infections.
• Mouth sores and ulcers: Dry mouth can cause irritation and inflammation in the mouth.
• Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing can lead to malnutrition and dehydration.