You may have an idea how bigger an irritation can be when
you have dry mouth. Dry mouth, or xerostomia, usually results from issues such
as diabetes, cancer treatment, prolonged stress and immune system’s
deficiencies. Mouth dryness is more than just an irritation as there are
several oral and overall health issues which can arise due to this condition.
Is mouth dryness harmful?
If mouth dryness is persistent, it can be very harmful. Dry
mouth feels irritated and sticky. Now, it is pretty much important to have
adequate amount of saliva in your mouth. Saliva moisturizes the mouth and
esophagus. Moreover, it provides necessary enzyme, called amylase, to start the
process of digestion. Without this enzyme, esophagus and stomach are forced to
work pretty hard in order to digest the foods.
If there is not much saliva in your mouth, you will not be
able to talk, taste and swallow your foods. Saliva is normally loaded with
antimicrobial elements which help in the better prevention of cold sores which
can be quite painful.
How mouth dryness occurs
In normal circumstances, mouth dryness occurs as we age.
People over the age of 40 are more prone to have dry mouths. Moreover, stress,
anxiety and less lower consumption of water can lead to the mouth dryness.
Consumption of alcohol, caffeinated drinks, salty foods and spicy meals can
lead to the mouth dryness.
There are several medications which can result in the mouth
dryness. Those medications mainly include cancer drugs, high blood pressure
medications, and muscle relaxants. These are medications which eliminate
moisture from tongue, lips and gums. In case you are having mouth dryness due
to the medication you are having, you can consult your physician to get the
right replacement.
Moreover, there are several health conditions which can
result in xerostomia. Those health conditions are:
- Cirrhosis of the liver
- Injury in the neck and/or head
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- HIV
- Cystic fibrosis
- Autoimmune disorders, especially the ones which affect the functions of salivary glands
- Parkinson’s Disease
In most of the cases, dry mouth doesn’t occur as a
consequence of a serious health problem. Still, it is pretty much important to
visit the dentist or health physician. You doctor may recommend simple things
such as intake of more water and chewing sugarless gum which is specifically
helpful in the stimulation of saliva production. Moreover, it is pretty much
important to quit smoking which doesn’t only dries up the mouth but it can be
seriously harmful for overall health. Moreover, you will have to limit the
consumption of caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and colas. Quitting
alcohol consumption can also be helpful in avoiding and getting rid of mouth
dryness.
