Summary about Disease
Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, is a condition resulting from reduced saliva production. Saliva plays a crucial role in oral health, aiding in digestion, neutralizing acids produced by bacteria, washing away food particles, and helping to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Xerostomia can lead to discomfort, difficulty speaking and swallowing, and an increased risk of dental problems.
Symptoms
A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
Frequent thirst
Sores in the mouth or split skin at the corners of the mouth
A dry, raw feeling in the throat
A red, irritated tongue
Difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing
Hoarseness
Bad breath
Altered sense of taste
Increased dental cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis
Causes
Medications: Many prescription and over-the-counter drugs can cause dry mouth, including those used to treat depression, anxiety, allergies, pain, colds, obesity, acne, epilepsy, hypertension (high blood pressure), Parkinson's disease, asthma, and diarrhea.
Radiation therapy: Radiation treatment to the head and neck can damage salivary glands.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs can make saliva thicker, leading to dry mouth.
Nerve damage: Injury or surgery that damages nerves in the head and neck area can cause dry mouth.
Certain medical conditions: Some diseases, such as Sjogren's syndrome, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, anemia, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and Alzheimer's disease, can cause dry mouth.
Dehydration: Conditions that lead to dehydration, such as fever, excessive sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, blood loss, and burns, can cause dry mouth.
Surgical removal of salivary glands
Tobacco and alcohol use: These substances can worsen dry mouth.
Mouth breathing: Breathing through the mouth can lead to dryness.
Aging: While aging itself may not directly cause dry mouth, older adults are more likely to take medications or have medical conditions that contribute to the problem.
Medicine Used
Saliva substitutes: These over-the-counter products (sprays, mouthwashes, lozenges, or gels) can help moisten the mouth. Common ingredients include carboxymethylcellulose or glycerin.
Saliva stimulants: These medications, such as pilocarpine (Salagen) and cevimeline (Evoxac), help stimulate saliva production. They are prescription medications.
Fluoride treatments: Prescription fluoride toothpaste or gels can help prevent tooth decay.
Is Communicable
Xerostomia itself is not communicable. It is a condition caused by underlying factors, not an infectious agent.
Precautions
Sip water frequently throughout the day.
Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candies to stimulate saliva flow.
Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks that can contribute to tooth decay.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, which can worsen dry mouth.
Use a humidifier at night to add moisture to the air.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth regularly.
Floss daily.
See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
Consider using a saliva substitute.
How long does an outbreak last?
Xerostomia is not an "outbreak" condition in the sense of an infectious disease. It's a chronic condition that persists as long as the underlying cause is present. If the cause is temporary (e.g., a short course of a medication), the dry mouth will likely resolve when the medication is stopped. If the cause is a chronic condition (e.g., Sjogren's syndrome), the dry mouth will likely be ongoing and require management.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical history and physical exam: The doctor will ask about medical history, medications, and symptoms. They will also examine the mouth and salivary glands.
Salivary flow test: This test measures the amount of saliva produced over a certain period.
Blood tests: These tests can help identify underlying medical conditions that may be causing dry mouth.
Salivary gland biopsy: In rare cases, a biopsy of a salivary gland may be needed to diagnose certain conditions.
Sialometry: This test measures the rate of saliva production.
Sialography: An X-ray examination of the salivary glands after injection of a radiopaque contrast dye.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset and progression of xerostomia symptoms vary depending on the cause.
Medication-induced: Symptoms may appear shortly after starting a medication and improve after stopping it.
Radiation therapy-induced: Dry mouth may begin during radiation treatment and can persist for months or years afterward, with varying degrees of recovery.
Sjogren's syndrome: Symptoms may develop gradually over months or years.
Dehydration: Symptoms can develop rapidly and resolve quickly with rehydration.
Other medical conditions: The timeline depends on the progression of the underlying condition.
Important Considerations
Dental health: Xerostomia significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Strict oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are essential.
Underlying cause: Identifying and addressing the underlying cause of dry mouth is crucial for effective management.
Medication review: Discuss all medications with a doctor to identify potential culprits and explore alternatives if possible.
Quality of life: Xerostomia can significantly impact quality of life. Seeking treatment and implementing self-care strategies can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Complications: Untreated xerostomia can lead to severe dental problems, difficulty eating, and impaired speech.