Dry Mouth Causes and Treatments

Dry mouth problems can range from mild and irritating to severe enough to interfere with everyday functions. There are various causes for dry mouth, stemming from illnesses and allergies to medications and injuries that can be combated with a host of treatments to fit (and alleviate) each one. If you are concerned with the negative effects dry mouth conditions can have and how to treat or even prevent the problem, these insights will guide you to better oral health and peace of mind.

The Side Effects of Medications

• One of the most common causes of dry mouth stems from side effects from certain medications. Muscle relaxers, sedatives and over-the-counter allergy medications are often the culprit.
  If you experience dry mouth after starting on a medication, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to discuss other options. He can sometimes adjust the dosage or change the medication altogether to solve the problem. One drug prescribed to fight dry mouth caused by medication is Salagen, but there are over-the-counter medicines that work well also. These can be found at most drug stores.

Medical Treatments That Leave You With Dry Mouth

• If you are undergoing cancer treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy, then you may be at risk for dry mouth. These treatments, especially radiation to the head or neck, can damage the salivary glands and reduce moisture in your mouth.
  Try increasing water intake if possible to keep your mouth well hydrated. Sucking on a sugar-free hard candy can also stimulate saliva production.

When the Culprit Is You

• Bad habits are often the root cause of dry mouth. If you "dip" or chew tobacco, you probably encounter dry mouth. This gets worse if you smoke cigarettes or cigars. Alcohol and caffeine consumption can also trigger dry mouth issues.
  The solution to these causes of dry mouth is simple: Quit using tobacco. Reduce the amount of caffeine and alcohol you consume.

Diseases That Lead to Dry Mouth

• It is not uncommon for diseases such as Alzheimer's to cause dry mouth problems for its victims. Other common diseases and conditions such as Parkinson's disease and HIV, Sjogren's syndrome, as well as anemia can lead to this condition. One of the signs doctors look for in patients when determining diabetes is the symptom of dry mouth and excessive thirst.
  A new drug on the scene that has recently obtained FDA approval to combat dry mouth caused by Sjogren's syndrome is Evoxac. Otherwise, ask your pharmacist for a nonprescription drug to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.

Injuries and Surgeries

• If you've recently suffered a neck injury or had surgery on your jaw or neck, you may quickly realize that your saliva glands have been damaged. Remedies are limited to nonprescription medications and keeping well hydrated. Another trick is to run a humidifier at night when you may be prone to breath through your mouth, further exasperating the problem.