Xerostomia

Xerostomia: causes, symptoms and treatment

Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth syndrome, is a condition in which the lining of the mouth becomes very dry due to a lack of saliva. This condition can cause discomfort and lead to various health problems such as tooth decay and gingivitis.

The causes of xerostomia can be different. Some of these include taking certain medications such as antidepressants and allergy medications, as well as radiation therapy to the head and neck area. In addition, xerostomia can be caused by diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome and diabetes.

Symptoms of xerostomia may include a feeling of dry mouth, difficulty swallowing and speaking, and irritation and soreness in the mouth and lips. In addition, tooth decay can occur as a result of a lack of saliva, since saliva plays an important role in protecting teeth from acids and bacteria.

Treatment for xerostomia may include increasing your intake of water, sugar-free gum, and other products that help increase saliva production. In addition, ointments and gels can be used to moisturize the oral mucosa, as well as drugs that stimulate saliva production. In some cases, it may be necessary to change the regimen of medications that may cause xerostomia.

In conclusion, xerostomia is a common condition that can cause discomfort and lead to health problems. If you experience symptoms of xerostomia, seek help from your doctor or dentist to determine the cause and determine the most effective treatment.

Xerostomia: causes, symptoms and treatment

Xerostomia is a condition in which saliva production is reduced, leading to a feeling of dry mouth and can cause various oral health problems. In this article we will look at the causes, symptoms and treatments for xerostomia.

Causes of xerostomia

Xerostomia can be caused by several reasons. One of the main ones is suppression of salivation. This may be the result of taking certain medications, such as anticholinergics, antidepressants, antihistamines, and medications for hypertension. Xerostomia can also be associated with age, stress, and prolonged continuous mouth breathing.

Some medical conditions can also cause xerostomia, including Sjögren's syndrome, radiation sickness, and diabetes. Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the glands that produce tears and saliva, resulting in dry eyes and mouth.

Symptoms of xerostomia

The main symptom of xerostomia is a feeling of dry mouth. In this case, a burning sensation and paresthesia of the tongue may be observed. The mucous membrane of the mouth becomes dry and bright red. In addition, there may be discomfort when eating and talking, as well as an increased risk of developing caries, periodontitis and other oral diseases.

Treatment of xerostomia

Treatment for xerostomia is aimed at reducing symptoms and preventing complications. The main treatment is to eliminate the cause, if possible. If xerostomia is associated with taking medications, then you need to discuss with your doctor the possibility of replacing the drug with another one.

Various methods can be used to reduce the symptoms of xerostomia. A 3% solution of potassium iodide, 1 tablespoon 2 times a day, a 1% solution of pilocarpine, 4-5 drops in the evening, prozerin, galantamine, medicinal herbs (coltsfoot, elecampane, thermopsis) are prescribed orally. It is also useful to drink more water, eliminate spicy and sour foods from your diet, and use sugar-free chewing gum.

In cases of xerostomia caused by Sjögren's syndrome, treatment may be required to reduce the activity of the immune system.

In conclusion, xerostomia is a condition that can lead to various oral health problems and affect quality of life. Although the etiology of xerostomia is not always known, treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms and eliminating the causes whenever possible. If you experience symptoms of xerostomia, consult your doctor for advice and appropriate treatment.