Xerostomia

Xerostomia, or dry mouth syndrome, is a condition in which there is a decrease in saliva production. The main symptom of xerostomia is dry mouth.

The causes of xerostomia can be different:

1. Taking certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, etc.)

2. Radiation therapy to the head and neck area

3. Chronic diseases (diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's disease, etc.)

4. Salivary gland infections

5. Dehydration

6. Stress

7. Smoking

The main symptoms of xerostomia:

1. Dry mouth

2. Difficulty swallowing and speaking

3. Burning or pain in the mouth

4. Cracks and sores on the tongue and lips

5. Increased sensitivity of teeth to temperature stimuli

6. Bad breath

7. Frequent caries and fungal infections

Treatment of xerostomia is aimed at eliminating the causes of the disease and alleviating symptoms. It is recommended to drink more fluids, avoid irritating and dry foods, and use moisturizing gels and mouth sprays. In some cases, saliva preparations and salivary stimulants are used.

Unlike xerostomia, with ptyalism there is an increased secretion of saliva.

Xerostomia is a disorder characterized by dryness of the oral mucosa, and salivation becomes impossible or reduced. This pathology is characterized by the presence of hyperemia of the tongue, its drooping and dry mucosa, sometimes the tongue can crack. In more than 80% of cases of xerostomia, the phenomenon is temporary, disappearing after a certain time.

The reasons for the development of this disease are very diverse. It occurs as a result of such pathologies of the digestive system as gastritis, malabsorption syndrome, chronic dyspepsia, pancreatitis.