salivary glands. Chemotherapy sometimes causes saliva to thicken and make the mouth feel dry.
Nerve Damage Can Affect Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can be related to nerve damage from a head or neck injury. Certain nerves carry messages between the brain and the salivary glands.
If these nerves are damaged, they might be unable to tell the salivary glands to make saliva. Without saliva, it’s also hard to taste food because saliva carries the flavors in food to nerve cells in the mouth and throat.
Other Causes of Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can be caused by a medical condition called Sjögren’s syndrome. Sjögren’s is an autoimmune disorder in which white blood cells called lymphocytes attack the body’s tear and salivary glands. This leads to dry eyes and dry mouth, the most common symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome. Dry mouth also occurs in patients with diabetes and HIV/AIDS.
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Smoking Can Make It Worse
There are plenty of reasons to quit smoking, and having a dry mouth is one of them. Smoking does not cause dry mouth. But smoking cigarettes, cigars, and pipes or using other tobacco products, even smokeless ones, can aggravate dry mouth. Alcohol and caffeine are also drying.
A Doctor Can Treat Dry Mouth
Talk to your doctor or dentist if you’re suffering from the symptoms of dry mouth. If you’re not currently taking medications that may be causing the problem, your symptoms might point to an underlying and undiagnosed medical condition like Sjögren’s syndrome or diabetes.
Take Care of Your Teeth
A lack of saliva can be harmful to your teeth. Regular dental checkups are essential if you have dry mouth. Faithfully floss and brush your teeth every day in order to remove food and bacteria. If you can’t brush after eating, rinse your mouth. Sip water frequently throughout the day and use alcohol-free mouthwash or dental products.
Other Tips to Help Dry Mouth
Sipping water frequently will help keep your mouth moist. But steer clear of sugary, acidic, or caffeinated drinks. Drinking water or milk with meals increases moisture and helps with chewing and swallowing. Try sleeping in a room with a humidifier to decrease dry mouth symptoms. Make sure you see your dentist for regular cleanings and exams.