Suchość w ustach
Etiologia i przyczyny

Kserostomia, czyli suchość w ustach, jest wynikiem niedostatecznej produkcji śliny przez gruczoły ślinowe, co może być spowodowane wieloma czynnikami, w tym farmakoterapią, chorobami autoimmunologicznymi (np. zespół Sjögrena), cukrzycą, infekcjami (HIV/AIDS, COVID-19), leczeniem przeciwnowotworowym (radioterapia, chemioterapia, immunoterapia) oraz uszkodzeniami nerwów w obrębie głowy i szyi. Ponad 400-600 leków, w tym przeciwdepresyjne, przeciwhistaminowe, diuretyki i leki na nadciśnienie, mogą wywoływać suchość w ustach poprzez blokadę receptorów muskarynowych M3 i działanie antycholinergiczne. Ryzyko nasila się przy polipragmazji, szczególnie u osób powyżej 55 roku życia, u których problem dotyczy nawet 40% populacji. Suchość pojawia się przy zmniejszeniu przepływu śliny do około 50% normy lub zmianie jej składu, co prowadzi do dyskomfortu i zwiększa ryzyko powikłań stomatologicznych.

Suchość w ustach – przyczyny

Suchość w ustach, określana medycznie jako kserostomia (xerostomia), to stan, w którym gruczoły ślinowe w jamie ustnej nie wytwarzają wystarczającej ilości śliny, aby utrzymać odpowiednie nawilżenie jamy ustnej. Jest to objaw, który może wynikać z różnych przyczyn i wpływać na komfort życia oraz zdrowie jamy ustnej.12 Problem ten dotyczy znaczącego odsetka populacji, szczególnie osób starszych – nawet do 25% dorosłych doświadcza tego problemu, a odsetek ten wzrasta do około 40% wśród osób powyżej 55 roku życia.34

Leki jako przyczyna suchości w ustach

Najczęstszą przyczyną suchości w ustach są przyjmowane leki – zarówno na receptę, jak i dostępne bez recepty. Szacuje się, że ponad 400-600 różnych leków może powodować suchość w ustach jako działanie niepożądane.156 Niektóre źródła wskazują nawet na ponad 1100 leków mogących wywoływać ten objaw.7 Do kategorii leków najczęściej powodujących suchość w ustach należą:

  • Leki przeciwdepresyjne18
  • Leki przeciwlękowe18
  • Leki na nadciśnienie tętnicze15
  • Leki przeciwhistaminowe18
  • Leki przeciwbólowe18
  • Leki moczopędne (diuretyki)58
  • Leki na kontrolę pęcherza (przeciw nietrzymaniu moczu)58
  • Leki rozszerzające oskrzela stosowane w astmie8
  • Leki na chorobę Parkinsona8
  • Leki przeciwpadaczkowe8
  • Leki na otyłość i trądzik8
  • Leki na problemy psychotyczne8
  • Leki na nudności8
  • Środki nasenne i uspokajające8
  • Leki rozkurczające mięśnie81

Wiele z tych leków powoduje suchość w ustach poprzez wpływ na układ cholinergiczny, blokując receptory muskarynowe M3, co prowadzi do zmniejszenia wydzielania śliny.9 Ryzyko wystąpienia suchości w ustach wzrasta przy jednoczesnym stosowaniu kilku leków (polipragmazja), co jest częstym zjawiskiem u osób starszych.910

Choroby i stany chorobowe jako przyczyna suchości w ustach

Wiele schorzeń i stanów chorobowych może prowadzić do suchości w ustach. Do najczęściej wymienianych należą:

  • Zespół Sjögrenachoroba autoimmunologiczna charakteryzująca się przewlekłym zapaleniem gruczołów łzowych i ślinowych, prowadzącym do zmniejszenia produkcji śliny i łez. Jest to druga najczęstsza choroba autoimmunologiczna tkanki łącznej i najczęstsza choroba systemowa związana z dysfunkcją ślinianek.11812
  • Cukrzyca – zarówno typu 1, jak i typu 2. Wysokie stężenie glukozy we krwi może wpływać na produkcję śliny, co prowadzi do suchości w ustach. Ponadto cukrzyca może powodować odwodnienie ze względu na zwiększone wydalanie moczu.131415
  • HIV/AIDS – infekcja może prowadzić do zespołu rozlanego naciekania limfocytarnego (DILS), który wpływa na gruczoły ślinowe.168
  • Choroba Alzheimera – może wpływać na zdolność do odpowiedniego nawodnienia organizmu oraz utrudniać stosowanie się do zaleceń dotyczących leków na suchość w ustach.1718
  • Choroba Parkinsona – wpływa na nerwy kontrolujące wydzielanie śliny.198
  • Udar mózgu – może uszkodzić nerwy odpowiedzialne za produkcję śliny.188
  • Pleśniawki jamy ustnej (kandydoza) – infekcja grzybicza, która może powodować stan zapalny i uszkadzać gruczoły ślinowe.2021
  • Mukowiscydoza – może negatywnie wpływać na funkcję gruczołów ślinowych.178
  • Inne choroby autoimmunologiczne – takie jak reumatoidalne zapalenie stawów, toczeń rumieniowaty układowy i twardzina.2223
  • Choroby gruczołów ślinowych – takie jak kamienie ślinowe (sialolitiaza) i zapalenie gruczołów ślinowych (sialadenitis).224
  • Zaburzenia endokrynologiczne – takie jak choroby tarczycy.2523
  • Zaburzenia krwotoczne – anemia może być przyczyną suchości w ustach.2627
  • Przewlekła choroba nerek – schyłkowa niewydolność nerek jest związana z suchością w ustach.2829
  • Choroby wątroby – takie jak pierwotna marskość żółciowa.2824
  • Zaburzenia psychiczne – depresja, zaburzenia obsesyjno-kompulsywne, lęk.3031

Leczenie przeciwnowotworowe

Terapie stosowane w leczeniu nowotworów mogą istotnie wpływać na produkcję śliny:

  • Radioterapia głowy i szyi – może poważnie uszkodzić gruczoły ślinowe, znacznie zmniejszając produkcję śliny. Skutki te mogą być przejściowe lub trwałe, w zależności od dawki promieniowania i obszaru poddanego leczeniu.18532
  • Chemioterapia – leki stosowane w leczeniu nowotworów mogą zmieniać naturę śliny i ilość jej produkcji. Efekt ten może być czasowy, z powrotem do normalnego wydzielania śliny po zakończeniu leczenia.18533
  • Immunoterapia – podobnie jak chemioterapia, może wpływać na produkcję i skład śliny.5

Uszkodzenie nerwów

Uszkodzenie nerwów w obszarze głowy i szyi może prowadzić do suchości w ustach poprzez zaburzenie funkcji gruczołów ślinowych:

  • Urazy głowy i szyi mogą uszkodzić nerwy, które przekazują sygnały do gruczołów ślinowych, powodując zmniejszenie produkcji śliny.520
  • Operacje w obrębie głowy i szyi mogą również prowadzić do uszkodzenia nerwów i zmniejszenia produkcji śliny.30
  • Neuropatia cukrzycowa może wpływać na nerwy wokół gruczołów ślinowych, które są bardzo podatne na zmiany ciśnienia krwi.34

Styl życia i czynniki środowiskowe

Wiele czynników związanych ze stylem życia może przyczyniać się do powstawania suchości w ustach:

  • Oddychanie przez usta – zarówno w ciągu dnia, jak i podczas snu, może prowadzić do wysuszenia jamy ustnej. Jest to częste u osób z zablokowanym nosem, chrapiących lub z bezdechem sennym.352136
  • Odwodnienie – niewystarczające spożycie płynów lub nadmierna utrata płynów (np. z powodu gorączki, wymiotów, biegunki, krwawienia) może prowadzić do suchości w ustach.3738
  • Spożywanie alkoholu – alkohol działa jak diuretyk, powodując odwodnienie, które może prowadzić do suchości w ustach.3539
  • Używanie tytoniu – zarówno palenie, jak i żucie tytoniu może powodować suchość w ustach.3540
  • Używanie substancji psychoaktywnych – marihuany, metamfetaminy i innych narkotyków może prowadzić do suchości w ustach.354020
  • Dieta – spożywanie dużej ilości pokarmów słonych, słodkich, pikantnych lub kwaśnych może przyczyniać się do suchości w ustach lub odwodnienia.4142
  • Stres i lęk – mogą wpływać na funkcję gruczołów ślinowych i zmniejszać produkcję śliny.4344

Wiek jako czynnik ryzyka

Chociaż samo starzenie się nie jest bezpośrednią przyczyną suchości w ustach, problem ten jest częstszy u osób starszych z kilku powodów:

  • Osoby starsze często przyjmują więcej leków, z których wiele może powodować suchość w ustach jako działanie niepożądane.1845
  • Zmiany w sposobie przetwarzania leków przez organizm mogą nasilać efekty uboczne, w tym suchość w ustach.18
  • Długotrwałe problemy zdrowotne, które są częstsze u osób starszych, mogą przyczyniać się do suchości w ustach.18
  • Nieodpowiednie odżywianie, które może być problemem u osób starszych, może wpływać na produkcję śliny.18

Inne przyczyny suchości w ustach

Istnieją również inne czynniki, które mogą przyczyniać się do wystąpienia suchości w ustach:

  • Chirurgiczne usunięcie gruczołów ślinowych – z powodu infekcji lub guza może prowadzić do trwałej suchości w ustach.3740
  • Zmiany hormonalne – związane z ciążą lub menopauzą mogą wpływać na produkcję śliny.4647
  • Noszenie protez dentystycznych – może czasami przyczyniać się do uczucia suchości w ustach.48
  • Zakażenie wirusem zapalenia wątroby typu C (HCV) – może być przyczyną dysfunkcji gruczołów ślinowych.3211
  • COVID-19 – suchość w ustach jest jednym z najczęstszych i najbardziej uporczywych objawów ustnych związanych z COVID-19.1611
  • Sarkoidoza – rzadka przyczyna dysfunkcji gruczołów ślinowych.3249
  • Choroba przeszczep przeciwko gospodarzowi (GVHD) – może prowadzić do suchości w ustach.2811
  • Utrzymujące się wysokie ciśnienie krwi – może być związane z suchością w ustach.11

Mechanizmy powstawania suchości w ustach

Zrozumienie patofizjologii suchości w ustach wymaga wyjaśnienia mechanizmów prowadzących do zmniejszenia produkcji śliny lub zmiany jej składu.

Zaburzenia funkcji gruczołów ślinowych

Suchość w ustach najczęściej wynika z nieprawidłowego funkcjonowania gruczołów ślinowych. Może to być spowodowane:

  • Zmniejszoną produkcją śliny – gdy gruczoły ślinowe nie wytwarzają wystarczającej ilości śliny (hiposekrecja). Zmniejszenie przepływu śliny do około 50% normalnego poziomu zazwyczaj powoduje uczucie suchości w ustach.50
  • Zmianą składu śliny – nawet przy normalnej ilości śliny, zmiany w jej składzie mogą powodować uczucie suchości. Leki, choroby i inne czynniki mogą wpływać na jakość produkowanej śliny.5051
  • Uszkodzeniem gruczołów ślinowych – na przykład przez radioterapię, choroby autoimmunologiczne czy przewlekłe zapalenie, które może prowadzić do zwłóknienia gruczołów ślinowych.28
  • Blokowaniem przewodów ślinowych – kamienie ślinowe lub inne przeszkody mogą utrudniać przepływ śliny.24

Wpływ leków na produkcję śliny

Leki mogą powodować suchość w ustach poprzez różne mechanizmy:

  • Działanie antycholinergiczne – wiele leków blokuje działanie acetylocholiny, neuroprzekaźnika stymulującego wydzielanie śliny, co prowadzi do zmniejszenia produkcji śliny.529
  • Działanie sympatykomimetyczne – leki aktywujące układ współczulny mogą również zmniejszać produkcję śliny.9
  • Zagęszczanie śliny – niektóre leki, takie jak leki stosowane w chemioterapii, mogą zmieniać konsystencję śliny, sprawiając, że staje się ona gęstsza.5

Odwodnienie i jego wpływ na produkcję śliny

Odwodnienie wpływa na produkcję śliny na kilka sposobów:

  • Gdy organizm jest odwodniony, priorytetowo traktuje zachowanie wody dla kluczowych funkcji organizmu, ograniczając produkcję śliny.53
  • Utrata płynów z powodu wymiotów, biegunki, krwawienia lub nadmiernego pocenia się może szybko prowadzić do odwodnienia i suchości w ustach.37
  • Niektóre choroby, takie jak cukrzyca, mogą powodować zwiększone wydalanie moczu i prowadzić do odwodnienia.15

Wpływ stresu i lęku na produkcję śliny

Stres i lęk mogą wpływać na produkcję śliny poprzez:

  • Zwiększenie poziomu kortyzolu – hormonu stresu – w ślinie, co może zmieniać jej skład i prowadzić do suchości w ustach.43
  • Aktywację układu współczulnego, który w reakcji „walcz lub uciekaj” zmniejsza produkcję śliny, przygotowując organizm do działania.3054

Podsumowanie etiologii suchości w ustach

Suchość w ustach jest objawem, który może być spowodowany wieloma różnymi czynnikami. Najczęstszymi przyczynami są leki, choroby autoimmunologiczne, zaburzenia endokrynologiczne, leczenie przeciwnowotworowe, odwodnienie oraz czynniki związane ze stylem życia. Identyfikacja pierwotnej przyczyny suchości w ustach jest kluczowa dla skutecznego leczenia tego objawu i zapobiegania potencjalnym powikłaniom, takim jak próchnica, choroby dziąseł czy infekcje jamy ustnej.5556

Ważne jest, aby osoby doświadczające przewlekłej suchości w ustach skonsultowały się z lekarzem lub stomatologiem w celu określenia przyczyny i opracowania odpowiedniego planu leczenia. Wczesna interwencja może pomóc w złagodzeniu objawów, poprawie jakości życia i zapobieganiu komplikacjom zdrowotnym związanym z długotrwałą suchością w ustach.57

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  1. 10.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Dry mouth – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/symptoms-causes/syc-20356048
    Dry mouth, also called xerostomia (zeer-o-STOE-me-uh), is when the salivary glands in the mouth don’t make enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. Dry mouth often is due to aging, the side effects of certain medicines or radiation therapy for cancer. Less often, a condition directly affecting the salivary glands can cause dry mouth. […] Dry mouth is caused when the salivary glands in the mouth don’t make enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. Sometimes these glands may not work properly due to: […] Medicines. Hundreds of medicines, including many medicines available without a prescription, can cause dry mouth. Among the medicines more likely to cause problems are those for depression, high blood pressure and anxiety, as well as some antihistamines, decongestants, muscle relaxants and pain relievers.
  • #2 Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10902-dry-mouth-xerostomia
    Xerostomia (dry mouth) is the sensation you may feel when you don’t have enough saliva (spit). […] Chronic dry mouth (when your mouth is dry all the time) could point to an underlying health condition. Most often, xerostomia is a side effect of certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants and some antidepressants. […] Xerostomia happens when something causes your salivary glands to produce less saliva. […] Dry mouth causes include: Certain medications, Underlying health conditions, Radiation therapy, especially for head and neck cancer, Chemotherapy drugs, Dehydration, Mouth breathing. […] Certain medical conditions are more likely to cause dry mouth, including: Salivary stones (sialolithiasis), Salivary gland inflammation (sialadenitis), Diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, Stroke, Sjogren’s syndrome.
  • #3 Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) Causes, Symptoms and Treatment – Dental Depot Arizona
    https://dentaldepotarizona.com/dry-mouth-xerostomia-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/
    When you think of oral health problems, things like cavities or losing a tooth may be the first that come to mind. However, around one in four adults–and nearly 40% of adults over 55–suffer from a condition called xerostomia, the medical term for dry mouth. With dry mouth, the oral cavity doesn’t produce as much saliva as it’s supposed to, which can cause not only discomfort but also deterioration of healthy mouth tissues. […] Dry mouth can develop as the result of a number of possible factors. Some causes may be related to diet or lifestyle habits, while others are related to your genetics and overall health history. […] One medical reason for dry mouth is an autoimmune disease such as Sjögren’s syndrome, a rare condition in which the body attacks its own tissues—specifically, those tissues in charge of producing various facial secretions, like tears and saliva. When the salivary ducts are attacked, they may become scarred or die, reducing the amount of saliva produced in the mouth.
  • #4 The Causes, Complications, and Treatment of Dry Mouth
    https://www.artofmoderndentistry.com/blog/xerostomia-what-causes-dry-mouth-and-how-to-treat-it/
    Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a common oral health condition affecting 25% of all adults. Xerostomia occurs when the salivary glands dont produce enough saliva, and can negatively affect your overall health if not addressed. […] Xerostomia is often a side effect of certain medications and other health issues. Aging can exacerbate this problem, as well, affecting 40% of adults over the age of 55. Dry mouth may actually be caused by many things, but here are some of the most common. […] Certain health conditions like Alzheimers disease, autoimmune disease, diabetes, and stroke can cause dry mouth and oral yeast infection. Mouth breathing and snoring are also contributing factors. […] Dry mouth as a side effect of drugs is extremely common. From over-the-counter medications to prescription drugs, dry mouth is a typical complaint. These medications often include treatments for allergies, colds, anxiety, depression, hypertension, and pain.
  • #5 Dry Mouth Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment | National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
    https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/dry-mouth
    Dry mouth, also called xerostomia (ZEER-oh-STOH-mee-ah), is the condition of not having enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. […] There are several possible causes of dry mouth: […] Side effects of some medicines. Hundreds of medicines can cause the salivary glands to make less saliva. For example, medicines for high blood pressure, depression, and bladder-control issues often cause dry mouth. […] Disease. Sjgren’s disease, HIV/AIDS, and diabetes can all cause dry mouth. […] Radiation therapy. The salivary glands can be damaged if they are exposed to radiation during cancer treatment. […] Chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Drugs used to treat cancer can make saliva thicker, causing the mouth to feel dry. […] Nerve damage. Injury to the head or neck can damage the nerves that tell the salivary glands to make saliva.
  • #6 Common Causes of Dry Mouth in Adults | Colgate® Oral Care
    https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/dry-mouth/common-dry-mouth-causes-in-adults-0214
    Your mouth feels parched. You have difficulty swallowing and trouble forming words. Many people experience dryness in the mouth from time to time. However, persistent dry mouth, also called xerostomia, can be a cause for concern. If the condition isn’t treated, it can lead to cavities, gum problems and oral infections. Dry mouth is often caused by medication and dehydration. In some people, it may be the symptom of an underlying medical condition. […] Xerostomia is a side effect of more than 400 medications, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR). Medications often limit the amount of saliva produced by the salivary glands, thereby causing the condition. Such medications may include treatments for high blood pressure, depression and cancer. If you think your dry mouth is connected to a medication you’re taking, consult your doctor to discuss your options.
  • #7 What Causes Dry Mouth? | Dry Mouth Symptoms
    https://www.westervilledental.com/dry-mouth-symptoms-and-causes/
    Dry mouth can be a nuisance, as it causes a feeling of dryness or stickiness. Understanding the symptoms and causes of dry mouth may help you prevent this unpleasant condition. […] Known as xerostomia among healthcare professionals, dry mouth develops when the salivary glands in your mouth fail to produce enough saliva. Reduced saliva may be the result of a wide variety of causes some of which you can control and others you cannot. […] When your salivary glands do not produce enough saliva, you can develop dry mouth. Salivary glands may not make enough saliva to keep your mouth wet for a variety of reasons. You may have xerostomia from one or more of the following causes. […] Dry mouth is a common side effect of more than 1,100 prescription and over-the-counter medications, according to the American Academy of Oral Medicine. Among these, the most likely to cause dry mouth are medications to treat depression, high blood pressure, and anxiety. Some antihistamines, decongestants, pain medications, and muscle relaxants can also cause dry mouth.
  • #8 Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-health-dry-mouth
    Dry mouth may be due to: […] Certain medications. Dry mouth is a common side effect of many prescription and nonprescription drugs, including drugs used to treat depression, anxiety, pain, allergies, and colds (antihistamines and decongestants), obesity, acne, epilepsy, hypertension (diuretics), diarrhea, nausea, psychotic disorders, urinary incontinence, asthma (certain bronchodilators), and Parkinson’s disease. Dry mouth can also be a side effect of muscle relaxants and sedatives. Older adults may be more susceptible to dry mouth because they take a lot of medications. […] Certain diseases and infections. Medical conditions, including Sjgren’s (pronounced „show-grins”) syndrome, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, anemia, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and mumps, can give you dry mouth.
  • #9 Dry Mouth: Medications and their Effects on Saliva
    https://ostrowonline.usc.edu/medications-that-cause-dry-mouth/
    By far, the most common cause of long standing dry mouth particularly in older adults is the use of xerogenic medications. […] There are now projected to be over a thousand medications associated with subjective and/or objective oral dryness either by interfering with the production of saliva or the pathways responsible for saliva secretions. […] Most commonly the inhibition is due to the impact of the drug on central and peripheral receptors resulting in anticholinergic activity against the M3 muscarinic receptors; the end result being reduced salivation. […] Drugs most commonly implicated with subjective and objective dry mouth are the medications with anticholinergic actions, sympathomimetic actions, such as tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics, atrophinic drugs to treat overactive bladder, decongestants, bronchodilators, anti-hypertensive drugs including beta-blockers and diuretics, anti-histamines, sedative hypnotics, opiates, and muscle relaxants.
  • #10 Dry Mouth: Medications and their Effects on Saliva
    https://ostrowonline.usc.edu/medications-that-cause-dry-mouth/
    Chemotherapeutic agents such as cytotoxic drugs and cytokines, retinoids, thyroid supplements, and anti-HIV medications are also known to cause dry mouth as the common adverse effect. […] The prevalence of dry mouth increases with increasing numbers of medications used for one or more conditions (polypharmacy). […] Age and medication seemed to play a more central role when there was objective evidence of hypo-salivation while female gender and psychological factors were more related to the subjective sensation of oral dryness. Clearly, the presence of medication is a more likely predictor of the risk of dry mouth than either age or gender. […] When drug-associated symptoms of dry mouth occur, the timeline of the symptoms and the initiation of the medication are likely to be closely related.
  • #11 Xerostomia (Dry Mouth) | American Dental Association
    https://www.ada.org/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/xerostomia
    Sjgren disease (formerly known as Sjgren syndrome) is the second most common autoimmune connective-tissue disease, and is the systemic condition most frequently associated with salivary dysfunction and xerostomia. […] Other conditions associated with dry mouth include: Burning mouth syndrome, COVID-19, Cystic fibrosis, Graft-versus-host disease, Hepatitis C virus infection, HIV infection/AIDS, Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy or menopause), Lymphoma, Nerve damage from a head or neck injury, Poorly controlled diabetes, Psychogenic causes, Salivary gland agenesis or aplasia, Stroke, Uncontrolled hypertension. […] Potential lifestyle causes of xerostomia include the use of alcohol and tobacco or cannabis use, or the consumption of excessive caffeine or spicy food.
  • #12 Sjögren’s syndrome
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sjogrens-syndrome/
    Sjgren’s syndrome happens when your immune system attacks the glands that produce fluid. […] It’s not clear why this happens, but it may be linked to certain genes, related to certain hormones, or triggered by a viral or bacterial infection.
  • #13 Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-mouth
    Smoking and recreational drug use. Smoking tobacco and weed can reduce the production of saliva. Using methamphetamines can also result in a very dry mouth. […] Dry mouth can also be caused by several health conditions, such as: Diabetes. Dry mouth is a common symptom of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Its thought that increased blood sugar levels may affect saliva production, which, in turn, can lead to dry mouth. […] Oral thrush. Oral thrush is a yeast infection in the mouth. The infection causes inflammation, which can damage your salivary glands. As a result, the glands may have a harder time producing enough saliva. […] Nerve damage. An injury, infection, surgery, or stroke that results in damage to the nerves in your head or neck can affect the ability of your salivary glands to produce saliva. This can result in dry mouth.
  • #14 Diabetes and Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/22495-diabetes-and-dry-mouth
    Dry mouth is a common symptom of high blood sugar in people with diabetes. […] High blood sugar is a common cause of dry mouth. […] People with diabetes who have high blood sugar are more at risk for infections, and they dont heal as quickly as people with blood sugar levels in the target ranges. High blood sugar and dry mouth together can lead to serious dental problems if theyre not treated. […] Dry mouth might be an early symptom of diabetes. […] Long-term dry mouth with diabetes can cause health problems, such as gum disease and infections.
  • #15 Dry Mouth Or Xerostomia – Causes And Treatment – Clínica Pardiñas
    https://www.clinicapardinas.com/en/dry-mouth-xerostomia
    Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is the result of an inadequate flow of saliva. […] Dry mouth is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom that can be caused by some systemic disease or the side effect of certain medications or treatments. […] In certain cases, dry mouth may be an indicator of Sjgrens syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own glands, producers of saliva and tears, as well as other organs. […] Diabetes is closely related to dry mouth. On the one hand, due to the high blood glucose levels of diabetics, the body tries to eliminate excess glucose through urine. This process can lead to dehydration which can cause dry mouth. On the other hand, Diabetes can affect the function of the salivary glands and reducing saliva production.
  • #16 Xerostomia – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xerostomia
    Infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) can cause a related salivary gland disease known as Diffuse Infiltrative Lymphocytosis Syndrome (DILS). […] Similar to taste dysfunction, xerostomia is one of the most prevalent and persistent oral symptoms associated with COVID-19.
  • #17 Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-mouth
    Cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that damages the digestive and respiratory systems. It can negatively affect the function of salivary glands. […] Autoimmune disorders. In an autoimmune condition, your immune system mistakenly attacks your body. The most common autoimmune condition associated with dry mouth is Sjgrens syndrome. This disease involves inflammation in the salivary glands, resulting in mouth dryness. […] Alzheimers disease. Alzheimers disease can interfere with a persons ability to stay well hydrated. Additionally, people with Alzheimers disease might have a difficult time following directions for taking dry mouth medication.
  • #18 Dry mouth – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/symptoms-causes/syc-20356048
    Aging. Many older people have symptoms of dry mouth as they age. Certain changes in how the body processes medicine, poor nutrition and long-term health problems can cause dry mouth. […] Cancer therapy. Medicine to treat cancer, called chemotherapy, can change the nature of saliva and the amount produced. This may be for a limited time, with typical salivary flow returning after treatment ends. Radiation treatments to the head and neck can damage salivary glands, greatly lowering saliva production. This may be for a limited time, or it could be lasting, depending on the radiation dose and area treated. […] Other health conditions. Dry mouth can be due to certain health conditions, such as diabetes, stroke, a yeast infection in the mouth or Alzheimer’s disease. Or dry mouth could be due to autoimmune diseases, such as Sjogren syndrome or HIV/AIDS.
  • #19 Common Causes of Dry Mouth in Adults | Colgate® Oral Care
    https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/dry-mouth/common-dry-mouth-causes-in-adults-0214
    Some health conditions can lead to dry mouth. The Sjögren’s Syndrome Foundation states that xerostomia is often one of the major symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder. If you suffer from the disorder, your immune system attacks the salivary glands and other moisture-producing glands in the body. To determine whether your dry mouth is caused by Sjögren’s syndrome, a doctor may measure the rate of salivary flow or perform a biopsy of the small salivary glands on your lower lip to identify antibodies commonly associated with the disorder. […] Furthermore, both the condition and treatment of Parkinson’s Disease can lead to dry mouth in patients. People with Parkinson’s Disease may also find that they are producing excessive saliva or drooling in combination with their dry mouth condition, according to a 2011 study published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease. Other conditions that may lead to dry mouth include Alzheimer’s Disease, diabetes and depression.
  • #20 Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-mouth
    Smoking and recreational drug use. Smoking tobacco and weed can reduce the production of saliva. Using methamphetamines can also result in a very dry mouth. […] Dry mouth can also be caused by several health conditions, such as: Diabetes. Dry mouth is a common symptom of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Its thought that increased blood sugar levels may affect saliva production, which, in turn, can lead to dry mouth. […] Oral thrush. Oral thrush is a yeast infection in the mouth. The infection causes inflammation, which can damage your salivary glands. As a result, the glands may have a harder time producing enough saliva. […] Nerve damage. An injury, infection, surgery, or stroke that results in damage to the nerves in your head or neck can affect the ability of your salivary glands to produce saliva. This can result in dry mouth.
  • #21 Dry mouth
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dry-mouth/
    The main causes of a dry mouth are: dehydration for example, from not drinking enough, sweating a lot or being ill […] medicines check the leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if dry mouth is a side effect […] breathing through your mouth at night this can happen if you have a blocked nose or you sleep with your mouth open […] anxiety […] cancer treatment (radiotherapy or chemotherapy) […] oral thrush (mouth thrush) […] Sometimes a dry mouth that does not go away may be caused by a condition like diabetes or Sjgren’s syndrome.
  • #22 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/health/Xerostomia-Causes.aspx
    Xerostomia is caused by a number of medical and lifestyle-related issues that can result in either temporary or permanent cessation of saliva production by the salivary glands. […] One of the leading causes of xerostomia is the use of medication. […] Medications that result in decreased saliva production are termed xerogenic. […] The incidence of xerostomia increases with age. However, it is unclear whether age is a direct cause of xerostomia or if the association is due to the increased number of medications taken by the elderly. […] Xerostomia is also a symptom in many medical conditions. […] Several immune disorders are associated with dry mouth. […] For example, Sjgrens syndrome is an immune disease typically found in post-menopausal women whereby immune cells attack and enlarge the salivary and lacrimal glands that produce saliva and tears, respectively.
  • #23 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/health/Xerostomia-Causes.aspx
    Similarly, some patients infected with HIV experience immune cell infiltration and enlarging of the salivary glands (particularly the parotid gland) that can result in decreased salivary production. […] Other immune disorders associated with xerostomia include rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus. […] Several other medical conditions and systemic diseases are also associated with xerostomia. […] For example, patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes often complain of xerostomia, which occurs as a result of the dehydration and frequent urination associated with abnormal blood sugar levels. […] Other diseases associated with xerostomia include hypertension, cystic fibrosis, end-stage renal disease, and some endocrine disorders. […] Xerostomia is also commonly found in patients receiving therapy for cancers of the head and neck.
  • #24 Dry mouth | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dry-mouth
    Sjogren’s syndrome – is a common autoimmune disease that mainly affects the eyes and salivary glands, but can also affect the sweat glands. […] Salivary duct blockages – for example, tiny stones made from saliva minerals may lodge in the salivary ducts and restrict saliva flow. […] Certain medical conditions – including AIDS, amyloidosis, cerebral palsy, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, primary biliary cirrhosis and lupus. […] Nerve problems – the function of the salivary glands is controlled by facial nerves. Injury, illness or surgical damage to these nerves, for example, may reduce saliva production. […] Some cancer treatments – such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy (if directed at the head or neck), may temporarily reduce the ability of salivary glands to make saliva. […] Other causes – including a tendency to mostly breathing through the mouth, for example, in the case of a persistently stuffy nose or blocked sinuses, or hormone changes from pregnancy or menopause. […] Dehydration – not drinking enough fluid can cause thick saliva and a dry mouth. Other causes of dehydration include medical conditions such as blood loss, chronic diarrhoea or kidney failure.
  • #25 Dry Mouth at Night: 7 Causes and How to Prevent it
    https://healthysleepmidwest.com/what-causes-dry-mouth-at-night/
    6. Alcohol and Caffeine Consumption: Alcohol and caffeine have diuretic properties and may also interfere with salivary glands, which can cause your mouth to dry out during sleep. […] […] 7. Poor Oral Health: Poor oral health conditions such as oral diseases, tooth decay, and gum disease not only give you bad breath but also cause the mouth to dry out. […] […] 8. Use of Recreational Drugs: Certain recreational drugs, notably marijuana and methamphetamine, significantly reduce the salivary gland function, leading to dry mouth, commonly referred to as “cottonmouth.” […] […] 9. Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can lead to dehydration, resulting in dry mouth symptoms. […] […] 10. Thyroid Disorders: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause dry mouth. […] […] Yes, dry mouth can be a symptom of anxiety. According to studies, dry mouth is a possible physical symptom associated with anxiety disorders. […]
  • #26 Dry Mouth Meaning, Causes, Symptoms, Signs & Treatment
    https://www.medicinenet.com/dry_mouth/article.htm
    Dry mouth most commonly occurs as a side effect of medications that cause decreased saliva production. […] There are many causes of dry mouth. It most commonly occurs as a side effect of medications that cause decreased saliva production, including: High blood pressure medications, Antihistamines, Antidepressants (such as Wellbutrin, Lexapro, and Zoloft), Diuretics, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, Steroids (such as prednisone and prednisolone), Amphetamines (such as Adderall), Many others. […] There are over 400 commonly used medications that can cause dry mouth. Sometimes the dry mouth goes away, but usually, it continues as long as the medication is being used. […] Other causes of dry mouth include: Dehydration, Radiation treatments to treat cancerous tumors of the head and neck, Salivary gland diseases, Removal of salivary glands, Diabetes, Smoking, Using chewing tobacco, Hormonal imbalances, Sinusitis, Mouth breathing, Sleep apnea, Cystic fibrosis, Mumps, Hypothyroidism, Autoimmune disorders such as Sjgren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, HIV/AIDS, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
  • #27 Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Causes and Treatment | Doctor
    https://patient.info/doctor/dry-mouth-xerostomia
    Xerostomia (dry mouth) may be a side-effect of medication. It is also caused by irradiation of the head and neck region or by damage to or disease of the salivary glands. […] There are many possible causes of xerostomia, which include: Medications, especially anticholinergic, sympathomimetic and antihypertensive. Some opioids, benzodiazepines and anti-migraine agents may also contribute to salivary disorders. […] Certain diseases such as Sjgrens syndrome, diabetes, depression, anaemia, bulimia. […] Problems with dry mouth may also occur in alcoholics, cigarette smokers and drug addicts. […] Radiotherapy for cancer in the head and neck area.
  • #28 Xerostomia – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545287/
    Xerostomia is linked to multiple etiologies. However, it most frequently develops as an adverse effect of medication, secondary to head and neck radiation therapy, and due to Sjgren syndrome. Numerous causes of xerostomia have been described; the most common cause is medication side effects, followed by Sjgren syndrome, radiotherapy, and other autoimmune diseases in no particular order. […] Xerostomia develops in most patients undergoing head and neck radiation therapy for cancer treatment when the major salivary glands are in the radiation path. […] Xerostomia is commonly attributed to Sjgren syndrome, which is characterized by oral and ocular dryness. Chronic lymphocytic infiltration causes eventual fibrosis of salivary glands. […] Other potential causes for oral dryness may include autoimmune system disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), patients with a history of mouth breathing, dehydration, poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, nerve damage from head or neck injury, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), graft versus host disease (GVHD), and HIV/AIDS.
  • #29 Dry Mouth Syndrome – ENT Health
    https://www.enthealth.org/conditions/dry-mouth-syndrome/
    Dry mouth syndrome is often caused by a decrease in saliva from the salivary glands. […] There are a variety of causes of dry mouth syndrome. Aging leads to decreased salivary flow and can contribute to dry mouth although it is usually not the only cause. […] Many diseases can cause a decrease in oral saliva. Patients with diabetes, end-stage renal disease, Hepatitis C, Parkinsons disease, Alzheimers disease, and HIV are more likely to have dry mouth syndrome. […] There are also over 500 medications that can cause dry mouth. Blood pressure medications, seizure medications, antidepressants, and opioids are some of the most common medications that can lead to dry mouth. […] Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogrens disease can cause dry mouth syndrome.
  • #30
    https://journals.lww.com/dmms/fulltext/2019/14030/dry_mouth__an_emerging_epidemic.35.aspx
    The activation of the sympathetic system in conditions of anxiety, stress produces viscous saliva and hence contributes to the symptom of dry mouth. […] Personal habits like mouth breathing, drinking alcohol, or using tobacco products can cause dry mouth. […] Various psychological disorders such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, cancer phobia, and anxiety states have been associated with dry mouth. […] Disruption in the neuronal pathway for salivation following trauma and head and neck surgery can also lead to hyposalivation.
  • #31 Dry Mouth Meaning, Causes, Symptoms, Signs & Treatment
    https://www.medicinenet.com/dry_mouth/article.htm
    Eating disorders, such as bulimia and anorexia, are other risk factors for developing xerostomia. […] Other risk factors include stress, anxiety, and depression. […] The prognosis (outlook) depends on the underlying cause of the dry mouth. Management should be focused on eliminating the cause when possible, such as dehydration, anemia, and stress.
  • #32 Xerostomia – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xerostomia
    Xerostomia may be the only symptom of celiac disease, especially in adults, who often have no obvious digestive symptoms. […] Radiation therapy for cancers of the head and neck where the salivary glands are close to or within the field irradiated is another major cause of xerostomia. […] Oral dryness may also be caused by mouth breathing, usually caused by partial obstruction of the upper respiratory tract. […] Alcohol may be involved in the cause of salivary gland disease, liver disease, or dehydration. […] Smoking is another possible cause. […] Hormonal disorders, such as poorly controlled diabetes, chronic graft versus host disease or low fluid intake in people undergoing hemodialysis for renal impairment may also result in xerostomia, due to dehydration. […] Xerostomia may be a consequence of infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and a rare cause of salivary gland dysfunction may be sarcoidosis.
  • #33 Dry mouth: Causes, symptoms, and treatment
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/187640
    Dry mouth is a symptom that results from a lack of saliva. Potential dry mouth causes include dehydration, underlying chronic conditions, and side effects of some treatments and medications. […] Possible causes of dry mouth include: […] Many prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications cause dry mouth, including: […] Even though dry mouth is not a typical part of aging, older adults tend to take more medications than the rest of the population. Many of these medications cause dry mouth. […] Cancer Research U.K. indicates that radiation to the head and neck can damage the salivary glands, resulting in less saliva being produced. Chemotherapy can change the nature of the saliva, as well as how much of it the body produces. […] Some health conditions and habits can cause dry mouth, such as:
  • #34
    https://www.venicedentist.com/4-common-causes-of-dry-mouth
    Anything you consume can have an impact on your oral health, and tobacco and alcohol are not excluded from this list. Alcohol is a diuretic, and your body will produce less saliva when it is dehydrated. With long-term use, both alcohol and tobacco can cause chronic reduced saliva flow. […] Some cases of dry mouth originate from nerve damage that prevents saliva production signals from reaching the salivary glands. Diabetic neuropathy is a classic example of this because the nerves around the salivary glands are very susceptible to changes in blood pressure. […] People with dry mouth from nerve damage will often experience secondary symptoms. Numbness or shooting pain in the neck or jaw is common. Some dental patients report a continuous burning sensation on their tongue or anterior palate, a condition known as burning mouth syndrome.
  • #35 Dry mouth – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/symptoms-causes/syc-20356048
    Snoring and mouth breathing. Snoring and breathing with the mouth open can lead to dry mouth. […] Tobacco and alcohol use. Drinking alcohol and smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to more dry mouth symptoms. […] Use of legal or illegal drugs that may be sold on the streets. Methamphetamine use can cause serious dry mouth, and it can damage teeth. Marijuana use also can cause dry mouth.
  • #36 How to Prevent Extremely Dry Mouth While Sleeping
    https://atglenfamilydentistry.com/what-causes-extremely-dry-mouth-while-sleeping-and-how-to-prevent-it/
    A dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a health condition that occurs when the salivary glands in your mouth don’t produce enough saliva. […] Several factors contribute to xerostomia, including dehydration, breathing through the mouth, medications, aging, diabetes, tobacco use, and cancer therapy. […] Your body loses fluids when you don’t drink enough water throughout the day. This makes your saliva glands produce less saliva, which in turn dries out your mouth. Excess alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, which may cause dry mouth. […] If you breathe through your mouth instead of your nose, you may be more likely to develop xerostomia because nasal secretions do not humidify your airway. […] Certain medications can make your mouth feel dry. These include antihistamines, antidepressants, antacids, decongestants, diuretics, and pain medications.
  • #37 Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-health-dry-mouth
    Some medical treatments. Damage to the salivary glands can reduce the amount of saliva produced. The damage could stem from radiation to the head and neck, or chemotherapy treatments for cancer. […] Nerve damage. Dry mouth can be a result of nerve damage to the head and neck area from an injury or surgery. […] Dehydration. Conditions that lead to dehydration, such as fever, excessive sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, blood loss, and burns can cause dry mouth. […] Surgical removal of the salivary glands. If you don’t have salivary glands, you won’t have saliva. […] Lifestyle. Smoking or chewing tobacco can affect how much saliva you make and aggravate dry mouth. Breathing with your mouth open a lot can also contribute to the problem. […] Dry mouth causes include taking certain drugs, pregnancy, certain diseases and conditions, and damage to the salivary glands, among other factors.
  • #38 Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-mouth
    A dry mouth is also known as xerostomia. It occurs when the salivary glands in your mouth dont produce enough saliva. […] Many factors can cause dry mouth. Additionally, having dry mouth alone doesnt necessarily mean you have an underlying condition. […] Possible causes of dry mouth include: Dehydration. Dehydration happens when your body loses too much fluid without getting replenished. This can happen due to vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, or blood loss. When youre dehydrated, your body doesnt produce as much saliva as it usually does, which can cause your mouth to feel dry. […] Medications. Dry mouth can be a side effect of many types of medication. Some of the most common types of medications known to cause dry mouth treat depression, anxiety, diarrhea, high blood pressure, and asthma. Antihistamines, diuretics, and some chemotherapy medications can also reduce the production of saliva.
  • #39 Common Causes of Dry Mouth in Adults | Colgate® Oral Care
    https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/dry-mouth/common-dry-mouth-causes-in-adults-0214
    Dehydration is another common cause of dry mouth; it occurs when you don’t drink enough fluid or lose more fluid than you take in. If you’re suffering from a stomach bug, for example, you could lose a lot of fluid due to vomiting, and you may be unable to replace the fluid due to severe nausea. A high fever can also leave you dehydrated. In addition, you may suffer from dehydration and dry mouth if you exercise on a hot day and sweat profusely.
  • #40 Dry mouth: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007760.htm
    Injury to the nerves involved in the production of saliva. […] Health problems such as Sjögren syndrome, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, Parkinson disease, cystic fibrosis, or Alzheimer disease. […] Removal of salivary glands due to an infection or tumor. […] Tobacco use. […] Drinking alcohol. […] Street drug use, such as smoking marijuana or using methamphetamine (meth). […] You can also get dry mouth if you feel stressed or anxious, breathe through your mouth, or become dehydrated. […] Dry mouth is common in older adults. But aging itself does not cause dry mouth. Older adults tend to have more health conditions and take more medicines, which increases the risk of dry mouth.
  • #41 Dry Mouth Relief: Exploring the Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions – Las Colinas Dental Group
    https://www.lascolinasdental.com/blog/dry-mouth/
    Many medications like decongestants, pain relievers, antihistamines, and antidepressants are known to have dry mouth as a common side effect because they limit the production of our salivary glands. […] Also, medical conditions including diabetes, anemia, and Alzheimers disease can cause dry mouth. […] Those who struggle with sleep apnea, snoring, or frequent mouth breathing will likely notice the symptoms of dry mouth. […] A diet high in salty, sugary, acidic, or spicy foods may cause dry mouth or dehydration. […] As we age we will more frequently notice the symptoms of dry mouth. This is normal as our salivary glands produce less saliva, and our body changes the way we process medicine, absorb nutrients, and manage long-term health conditions. […] Alcohol and tobacco affect your ability to produce saliva.
  • #42 Dry Mouth Or Xerostomia – Causes And Treatment – Clínica Pardiñas
    https://clinicapardinas.com/en/dry-mouth-xerostomia/
    A diet with excess carbohydrates, very salty, sugary or very spicy products and a lack of fruits and vegetables can cause dry mouth. […] The consumption of alcohol, tobacco and drugs has no health benefits and does not have positive effects on saliva issues, since any of these substances cause dehydration. […] Public speaking usually involves greater effort on the part of the speaker, who will generally try to vocalize and project better. […] We must not forget that any situation that leads you to spend more liquids than you need will bring episodes of dehydration. […] The relationship between mouth breathing and dry mouth is directly proportional and of great importance for oral health. […] The activity of the salivary glands decreases while we sleep, so less saliva is produced than during the day.
  • #43 Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-mouth
    Radiation therapy. Dry mouth is a common side effect of receiving radiation therapy to the head or neck. Radiation damages the salivary glands, reducing the secretion of saliva. […] Stress and anxiety. When youre stressed or anxious, your body makes more cortisol, the stress hormone. When cortisol levels increase in your saliva, it can change the composition of your saliva, resulting in mouth dryness. […] Aging. Its common to experience dry mouth as you get older. This may be due to health issues, certain medications, and changes to how well your body is able to process the medications you take. […] Mouth breathing and snoring. Breathing through your mouth causes saliva to evaporate. Snoring with your mouth open can have the same effect. This can make your mouth dry or worsen existing dryness.
  • #44 What Causes Dry Mouth, Advice from an ENT | Banner Health
    https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/teach-me/what-causes-dry-mouth-and-what-can-you-do-about-it
    Whether youre nervous, anxious or simply dehydrated, everyone gets dry mouth from time to time. But, if your mouth continually feels like the Sahara Desert, you may have xerostomia, a dry mouth condition where you dont produce enough saliva to keep your mouth moist. […] The reason for your dry mouth can have many causessome temporary or permanent. […] Nerves and anxiety before a big presentation, dehydration or getting older are common causes for dry mouth, but other contributing factors to your problem could be: […] Many medications such as antihistamines block the neurotransmitters that the body uses to produce saliva, Dr. Stewart said. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, dry mouth is a side effect of more than 400 medications. […] Radiation therapy for head and neck cancers can damage the salivary glands in your mouth, resulting in less saliva production.
  • #45 What causes dry mouth — and what treats it—The Family HealthGuide – Harvard Health
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/what-causes-dry-mouth-and-what-treats-it-the-family-healthguide
    The treatment of dry mouth depends on its cause. […] Now most experts agree that the vast majority of xerostomia cases are side effects of the many medications older people take, rather than aging itself. […] Xerostomia can also be caused by radiation treatment for head and neck cancer; in killing the cancer, the radiation also knocks out the salivary glands. […] Other sources of the condition are chemotherapy drugs and various chronic diseases, including diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and an autoimmune condition called Sjogren’s syndrome.
  • #46 Dry Mouth Or Xerostomia – Causes And Treatment – Clínica Pardiñas
    https://www.clinicapardinas.com/en/dry-mouth-xerostomia
    Any condition can trigger episodes of dry mouth. […] Dry mouth can be one of the symptoms of stress and/or anxiety, two situations in which our body is on alert and can function inappropriately. […] There are other common diseases that can cause xerostomia in addition to those already described. […] There are some medications that can generate a certain dry mouth in its consumers as we have already anticipated. […] Chemotherapy and radiotherapy, two cancer treatments, have many side effects and dry mouth is one of the common ones. […] This problem is more common in the elderly although anyone can suffer from dry mouth. […] Pregnancy brings a whirlwind of hormonal changes that can affect the composition and production of saliva. […] A diet with excess carbohydrates, very salty, sugary or very spicy products and a lack of fruits and vegetables can cause dry mouth.
  • #47 Nutritionist Reveals The Key Reasons For Experiencing Dry Mouth
    https://www.ndtv.com/health/nutritionist-reveals-the-key-reasons-for-experiencing-dry-mouth-8361430
    Nutritionist Pooja Makhija disclosed the body’s indication of major problems via dry mouth. […] Nutritionist Nmami Agarwal, in a video on Instagram, discusses the various other causes behind the same. […] The nutritionist clarifies that dry mouth is not always a simple case of not drinking enough water. Instead, she elaborates on the other following problems in the body which majorly exhibit the symptom of dehydration- Hormone shifts (like in menopause), High stress, Certain medicines, Poor gut health. […] In the video, she then explains, Dry mouth or xerostomia means that your nervous system is fried, your hormones are shifting and or the salivary glands are undernourished. […] Pooja says, Remember all those of you who are taking antidepressants or antihistamines regularly or blood pressure medication that reduces your saliva production.
  • #48 What Causes Dry Mouth? | Dentist Mount Prospect – Des Plaines
    https://www.meyerdentalgroup.net/fight-excessive-dry-mouth/
    Nerve Damage: Nerve damage in the head and neck in particular can contribute to dry mouth. […] Health Conditions: This category is fairly broad, but it includes diabetes, stroke, Alzheimers disease, autoimmune diseases, HIV or AIDS, and snoring. Recreational Drug Use: Marijuana, stimulants, and methamphetamine can cause xerostomia. […] Snoring, as well as breathing with your mouth open, are also significant causes of dry mouth. […] Chronic dry mouth is an issue that should be addressed immediately. Xerostomia (dry mouth) can lead to significant health problems, including: Dental caries and increased plaque, Oral candidiasis, Inflammation of the gums and mucosa, Difficulty speaking, eating, and swallowing, Painful tongue and taste disorders, Burning and stinging sensations in the mouth, Difficulty wearing dentures due to lack of lubrication from saliva. […] For many patients, the cause of their dry mouth is a required medication. In a situation like this, I like to suggest NeutraSal, a prescription rinse treatment that mimics saliva. […] NeutraSal is proven to relieve symptoms and supports overall dental health.
  • #49 Dry mouth | Healthify
    https://healthify.nz/health-a-z/d/dry-mouth
    Dry mouth can be caused by dehydration, medicines, medical conditions and cancer treatment. […] Common causes include: dehydration, eg, if you don’t drink enough water, sweat a lot or are sick; side effects of medicines such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, antihistamines, decongestants or diuretics; cannabis use; breathing through your mouth at night; medical conditions such as Sjogrens syndrome, sarcoidosis, diabetes, Parkinsons disease or other conditions that affect your salivary glands; psychological causes such as anxiety or depression; cancer treatment such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
  • #50 Xerostomia – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xerostomia
    Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is a subjective complaint of dryness in the mouth, which may be associated with a change in the composition of saliva, reduced salivary flow, or have no identifiable cause. […] Dehydration, radiotherapy involving the salivary glands, chemotherapy and several diseases can cause reduced salivation (hyposalivation), or a change in saliva consistency and hence a complaint of xerostomia. […] A reduction in saliva production to about 50% of the normal unstimulated level will usually result in the sensation of dry mouth. […] Altered saliva composition may also be responsible for xerostomia. […] Aside from physiological causes of xerostomia, iatrogenic effects of medications are the most common cause. […] Xerostomia may be caused by autoimmune conditions which damage saliva-producing cells.
  • #51 Dry Mouth Causes | Biotene | Haleon Oral HealthPartner
    https://www.haleonhealthpartner.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/dry-mouth/causes-and-mechanisms/
    Although medication is the most common cause of dry mouth, other causes can lead to reduced saliva flow. […] Medication is the number one cause of Dry Mouth as it is a side effect of many common medicines including antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, and sedatives. Taking multiple medications may increase the risk of Dry Mouth by at least 40%. […] The medical conditions and comorbidities leading to xerostomia are diverse. They include Parkinsons disease, anxiety and depression, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, head and neck radiation and chemotherapy cancer treatments. […] Dry Mouth is associated with changes in saliva composition and may have no immediately identifiable cause. […] Over 500 commonly used medications can have side effects that cause Dry Mouth, including many over-the-counter and commonly prescribed medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics and cytotoxic drugs. Furthermore, the risk of Dry Mouth increases in correlation with the number and types of medications. […] In addition to medication use, there are various other physiological, behavioural, psychological and medical causes of Dry Mouth.
  • #52 Dry Mouth – Mouth and Dental Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/mouth-and-dental-disorders/symptoms-of-oral-and-dental-disorders/dry-mouth
    Dry mouth is caused by a reduced or absent flow of saliva. This condition can cause discomfort, interfere with speech and swallowing, make wearing dentures difficult, cause bad breath (halitosis), and worsen oral hygiene by causing a decrease in the acidity of the mouth and an increase in bacterial growth, which contributes to the development of cavities. Longstanding dry mouth can result in severe tooth decay and candidiasis of the mouth. Dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands (glands in the mouth that produce saliva) malfunction and thus decrease saliva production. There are many causes, including dehydration and mouth breathing. The most common causes of dry mouth are medications and other substances. Medications are the most common cause overall. About 400 prescription medications and many nonprescription (over-the-counter) medications cause a decrease in saliva production. The most common classes of medications include the following: Medications that have anticholinergic effects (those that block acetylcholine), antiparkinsonian medications (those used to treat Parkinson disease), cancer chemotherapy medications. Tobacco use usually causes a decrease of saliva. Radiation therapy for head and neck cancer can severely damage the salivary glands, often causing permanent dryness. Less common causes of dry mouth include bodywide (systemic) disorders. Dry mouth is very common among people with Sjgren syndrome. Some people with diabetes or HIV infection have problems with dry mouth.
  • #53 Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) Causes, Symptoms and Treatment – Dental Depot Arizona
    https://dentaldepotarizona.com/dry-mouth-xerostomia-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/
    If you have ever given a presentation or performance, you might have felt yourself get clammy before you went on stage. […] Your body needs water in order to produce saliva. If it doesn’t have enough—such as when you are dehydrated—your body will reserve what water is in your body for more critical bodily functions. […] Nicotine constricts your blood vessels and reduces the flow of water through your body, affecting saliva production and causing dry mouth. Alcohol has a diuretic effect that flushes water out of the body and prevents proper hydration, causing dry mouth.
  • #54 Dry Mouth: Symptoms and Causes
    https://patient.info/signs-symptoms/dry-mouth
    Dry mouth has various causes. […] A dry mouth is not an illness in itself. It can have several causes. In many cases there is a problem with how the salivary glands work. The causes of dry mouth can include: […] Mouth breathing – which might be a usual habit, or be due to a blocked nose. […] Anxiety. Many people have felt their mouth becoming dry when scared or anxious; it’s part of the body’s 'fight or flight’ response to shut down digestion in the face of danger. […] Lack of fluid in the body (dehydration). This may occur for many reasons. For example, being ill with a high temperature or diarrhoea, or simply not drinking enough. […] Various medicines can cause a dry mouth as a side-effect. […] Many of these medicines cause a dry mouth by affecting the salivary glands which reduce the amount of spit (saliva) that these glands make.
  • #55
    https://journals.lww.com/dmms/fulltext/2019/14030/dry_mouth__an_emerging_epidemic.35.aspx
    Dry mouth is a common and emerging concern among the young and old alike, causing significant discomfort and oropharyngeal infections and impairing the quality of life of the individual. The etiology ranges from simple obstruction of salivary gland ducts, physiological stress and anxiety to a plethora of underlying salivary gland pathologies and systemic conditions. […] Understanding the etiology of the condition prompts appropriate early intervention to treat the underlying pathology, alleviate symptoms and prevent undesirable consequences that compromise the quality of life of an individual. […] Salivary dysfunction and ensuing dry mouth has a multifactorial etiology. Medications, poor general health, female sex, and old age influence the development of the condition. […] Understanding these causes is important because in some cases, the etiology can be addressed and early intervention can eliminate mouth dryness.
  • #56
    https://journals.lww.com/dmms/fulltext/2019/14030/dry_mouth__an_emerging_epidemic.35.aspx
    Diabetes mellitus (DM) has become a worldwide public health problem and in recent years, the global prevalence of DM has increased substantially. DM is probably the most common metabolic disease with salivary implications, due to its high frequency. Thus, with a rise in the prevalence of DM, there is a greater risk of larger proportion of this population to develop dry mouth. […] Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands, mainly the lacrimal and salivary glands, resulting in reduced secretory functions with oral and ocular dryness. […] Xerostomia and SGH are common side effects of prescription drugs. […] Drug-induced hyposalivation accounts for 80.5% of the adverse drug reactions. […] Radiotherapy is commonly employed as the mainstay or as an adjunct with chemotherapy and surgery for treatment of head and neck cancers.
  • #57 Dry mouth – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356052
    To determine the cause of your dry mouth, your healthcare professional reviews your medical history and the medicines you take, including medicines available without a prescription. […] Sometimes you may need blood tests, imaging scans of your salivary glands or tests to measure how much saliva you produce. These scans and tests can help find the cause of your dry mouth. […] Your treatment depends on the cause of your dry mouth. […] If your healthcare professional thinks a medicine is the cause, your dose may be changed. Or you may switch to another medicine that doesn’t cause dry mouth. […] If your mouth is extremely dry due to Sjogren syndrome or radiation treatment for head and neck cancer, your healthcare professional may prescribe pilocarpine (Salagen) to help you make more saliva. Or cevimeline (Evoxac) may be prescribed to help you make more saliva if you have Sjogren syndrome. […] Some basic questions to ask your healthcare professional include: What is likely causing my dry mouth? […] What are other possible causes?