Symptoms of Xerostomia

The definition of xerostomia is simple; it's a five syllable word for a dry mouth. Right? Right...and wrong. Xerostomia is not simply a dry mouth; there are a number of other symptoms associated with its existence, and it is important that those suffering from this condition be fully aware of everything that they are facing.

Xerostomia is a condition in which the salivary glands do not produce a sufficient amount of saliva. This results in the tissues of the mouth becoming dehydrated, and the skin will soon begin to crack and chap. If you have ever seen the mouth of a person who has become dehydrated you will know what this looks like. There are a number of reasons for xerostomia, dehydration among them. It also appears as a side effect of many medications, accompanies many cancer treatments in the form of chemotherapy or direct radiation to the head and neck and is a symptom of many diseases; however, regardless of its cause the underlying disease is not the only damage accompanying a case of xerostomia.

The saliva fulfills many functions in the body. It begins to digest food during the chewing process, using enzymes to help break down fat and starch molecules long before they reach the stomach. It also coats the teeth and possesses an antibacterial agent to help discourage unnatural bacteria from taking up residence in the mouth. Individuals who do not produce enough saliva cannot enjoy any of these functions, and they are therefore at a much higher risk of tooth decay because of the inability of the saliva to carry food away from the teeth. When food remains near the teeth it provides a nourishing growth medium for the bacteria that would rot away at the teeth, and without the help of the saliva to carry it away patients with xerostomia are prone to cavities and other dental issues. In addition, a lack of saliva will also lower the pH of the mouth, making it more bacteria friendly. Anyone with chronic xerostomia will be required to exercise more care in their oral hygiene routine than they would otherwi se.

In addition to the increased risk of tooth decay individuals with xerostomia have a greater chance of developing mouth ulcers (canker sores) that their salivating counterparts. They also have a greater chance of developing thrush, a yeast infection generally found in the mouth and very common in babies.

Xerostomia will first present itself with a mouth that appears to be constantly in need of liquid; however, it will not retain any liquids taken in for any length of time. The patient will soon notice that they are suffering from a chronic sore throat and a hoarseness in their speech, neither of which will be helped by partaking in fluids. Their lips and mouths will begin to chap and crack, and chewing will become very difficult. They will experience a burning of the mouth and tongue, as well as a change in their ability to properly taste the food that they are eating. There are a number of secondary infections that accompany this condition as well, and can be best diagnosed and treated by a physician.

Symptoms of Xerostomia
Symptoms of Xerostomia

Treating Xerostomia
Treating Xerostomia

What Causes Xerostomia
What Causes Xerostomia