10 most common causes of dryness of mouth

By Dr JK Avhad MBBS MD [ Mumbai ]

Dryness of the mouth occurs when your salivary glands do not produce enough saliva to keep your mouth moist. 

If you are suffering from dryness of mouth following could be common causes.

Medications

    • Antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs.

    • Medications for allergies, colds.

    • Blood pressure medications.

    • Pain killers.

    • Muscle relaxants.

    • Cancer chemotherapy and radiation drugs. 

Health conditions

    • Sjögren’s syndrome: It is an autoimmune disorder which attacks your salivary glands.

    • Diabetes.

    • AIDS

    • Infections: of the salivary glands.

    • Injury or surgery to the head or neck can damage the nerves supplying your salivary glands. 

Lifestyle habits

    • Dehydration

    • Mouth breathing and snoring

    • Drinking alcohol

    • Smoking or chewing tobacco

    • Stress and anxiety

When to consult a doctor

If your dry mouth is persistent and not relieved by drinking enough water, even after lifestyle modifications, stopping alcohol and tobacco you should seek the advise of health care professional

Whom to consult

You can consult head neck surgeon or ENT surgeon or physician or general surgeon.

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