Signs and Symptoms of Excessive Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a medical condition that is characterized by very little saliva within both the mouth and the throat. The condition is also commonly known as either "pasties" or "cotton mouth." A variety of causes can lead to the condition, from smoking to aging. If you experience any of the symptoms, consult your dentist or doctor.

Dryness

• As the condition's name indicates, one of the primary symptoms and signs of dry mouth is an excessively dry or sticky feeling within the mouth. Apart from just inside of the mouth, this dryness and stickiness also typically extends to the throat area as well. Hoarse and sore throats also can be signs of dry mouth, as can dry nasal passages.

Tingling and Burning

• Dry mouth often causes the mouth to have an unusual sensation of tingling or burning, and sometimes both. The tingling and burning sensations are particularly apparent on the tongue.

Halitosis

• People experiencing dry mouth might also notice that they have abnormally bad breath, even if they haven't eaten anything out of the ordinary.

Thirsty

• Feeling unusually thirsty, no matter how much water you consume, can also point to a bad case of dry mouth.

Saliva

• People who suspect they might have dry mouth should take note of the consistency of saliva. If the saliva seems to have an unusually stringy or thick texture, it could be a result of dry mouth.

Taste

• Dry mouth also can have an effect on people's taste buds. If your sense of taste seems to have slightly changed, it could be due to the condition. The condition can also manifest itself in symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, chewing and even talking.

Sores

• Unpleasant sores also can be due to dry mouth. If you have sores inside your mouth or on your mouth's corners, they could be from dry mouth. Also look out for split skin and cracked lips.

Dental Problems

• Certain teeth-related problems also can signify excessive dry mouth, including tooth decay and increased amounts of plaque.