Xerostomia: Saliva is a natural mouth lubricant, which not only keeps our mouth clean, but also helps in digesting food. Saliva also helps in avoiding saliva infection by keeping the bacteria and fungus of the mouth under control. When people are not able to make the right amount of saliva in their mouth, then their mouth becomes dry. This condition is called xerostomia. Sometimes the disease of xerostomia can arise due to the side effects of medicines. Xerostomia also occurs due to the treatment of a disease, such as radiation or chemotherapy treatment for cancer, etc.
According to Hindustan Times report, xerostomia can also be a side effect of many medical conditions, including HIV/AIDS, Sjogren’s syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease, anemia, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, stroke, Parkinson’s disease and Contains mumps. In addition, nerve damage in the neck and head from surgery or injury can also lead to xerostomia. The amount of saliva in the mouth can also be affected due to smoking and tobacco use.
Symptoms of Xerostomia
1. frequent thirst
2.dry mouth, sticky feeling
3. mouth sores
4. burning and tingling in the mouth, especially on the tongue
5. dry throat
6. dry and red tongue
7. trouble speaking
8. Trouble tasting, chewing, and swallowing
9. sore throat
10. bad breath
How is xerostomia treated?
To increase the amount of saliva in the mouth, doctors can advise patients to rinse their mouth. There are many specific mouthwashes, moisturizing gels and toothpastes for dry mouth. However, a dentist or doctor must be consulted about these. But if all these things do not help, then the doctor can also prescribe a medicine for saliva production called E-Saliva Plus Mouth Spray by Antode Pharmaceutical.
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