Dry Mouth : Causes

In many cases Dry Mouth is a side effect of prescribed medication. However, it can also be a result of treatment for another complaint including:

    • Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy

 

    • Sjögrens syndrome

 

    • Rheumatoid arthritis

 

    • Stroke or Parkinsons

 

    • Alzheimers

 

    • Nerve damage

 

    • Diabetes

 

    • HIV/Aids

 

    • Anaemia

In these cases the Dry Mouth is often more serious and prolonged, requiring a degree of symptomatic relief. In the UK a saliva substitute is commonly prescribed to help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

 

Other situations that can result in Dry Mouth, include;

    • Breathing through the mouth

 

    • Anxiety

 

    • Smoking

 

    • Drinking alcohol

In these instances the Dry Mouth is often less severe, so symptoms can often be controlled with good hydration, chewing gum and sucking sugar free sweets. Treatment Options