Xerostomia is a condition that is marked by dryness of mouth. It will reduce the saliva formation and block the secretion of salivary gland temporarily causing more dryness. It is actually a symptom of many diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and hyperthyroidism and this symptom will cause serious side effects on the life of the affected person. It can cause slurred speech, inability to sense taste and makes the person vulnerable for dental problems.
Xerostomia Causes :
Certain medications cause the symptoms of dryness on your mouth. Drugs given for blood pressure, depression, anxiety and tranquilizers would produce this effect. Certain diuretics and antihistamine drugs will also have adverse effect on the user. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can alter the normal flow and secretion of saliva from salivary gland. Certain diseases like Sjogren’s syndrome can cause dryness in your eyes and mouth. Endocrine disorders, heightened level of stress and depression can produce the same effect.
Any sudden injury to the head or neck region can cause serious damage on the nerves that will cut off the nerve supply to the mouth. This will stop the secretion of saliva or reduce it considerably. Prolonged use of tobacco in any form and old age can also cause xerostomia or dry mouth.
Dry mouth is the common term used to describe xerostomia and it is a serious condition and not just a nuisance. The affected person will not be able to enjoy his food anymore and moreover this condition will cause serious tooth decay promoting bacterial growth. Very often dry mouth or xerostomia is side effect of medications.
Symptoms :
There will not be enough saliva in the mouth leading to dryness. Saliva will be thick and less quantity. There will be painful sores in the oral cavity and the lips will develop cracks. You may not be able to enjoy the taste of food anymore and this condition will cause increased plaque formation and tooth decay. In addition this condition will give rise to fungal infection on the mouth.