### Understanding and Treating Dry Mouth Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, occurs when your salivary glands don't produce enough saliva. This can happen occasionally due to stress or nervousness, but chronic dry mouth might indicate a more serious health issue. Here are some common symptoms and treatments for dry mouth: #### Symptoms of Dry Mouth - A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth - Frequent thirst - Sores in the mouth; cracked lips - A dry feeling in the throat - A burning or tingling sensation in the mouth and especially on the tongue - Dry, red, raw tongue - Problems speaking or trouble tasting, chewing, and swallowing #### Causes of Dry Mouth - Medications: Antidepressants, antihistamines, antipsychotics, and beta blockers - Aging: Though not a direct cause, older adults are more prone to dry mouth - Health conditions: Diabetes, stroke, yeast infection (thrush) in your mouth, or Alzheimer's disease #### Home Remedies - **Stay Hydrated:** Drink water regularly throughout the day. - **Chew Sugar-Free Gum:** This can help stimulate saliva production. - **Use a Humidifier:** Adding moisture to the air can help keep your mouth moist. - **Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol:** These can dry out your mouth. - **Practice Good Oral Hygiene:** Brush and floss regularly to prevent tooth decay. #### Medical Treatments - **Saliva Substitutes:** Over-the-counter saliva substitutes can help keep your mouth moist. - **Prescription Medications:** Your doctor may prescribe medications that stimulate saliva production. - **Adjusting Medications:** If a current medication is causing dry mouth, your doctor might adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication. #### When to See a Doctor If you experience persistent dry mouth, it's important to consult a healthcare professional. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments. This might include saliva production tests or blood tests to determine if another medical condition is causing your symptoms. By understanding the causes and treatments for dry mouth, you can take steps to alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall oral health.