Dry mouth could be something more serious: Unpacking the potential health risks of xerostomia

Dry mouth could be your body's way of signaling dehydration and a need for more water intake. Other possible causes may include nighttime mouth-breathing, stress, unhealthy lifestyle habits, or smoking.

In some instances, lower saliva production may be linked to serious health conditions. The medical term for dry mouth is xerostomia, which essentially means a lack of saliva in the mouth.

Saliva is crucial for controlling bacterial levels and balancing and rinsing acids from the teeth and gums. Dry mouth should be a cause for concern, especially if it's accompanied by symptoms like a sore throat, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and a persistent sticky sensation.

People with diabetes are often subject to dry mouth due to high glucose levels in their blood and saliva. An excessive dry mouth may also increase the risk of yeast infections in the mouth.

Dry mouth is also prevalent among individuals with HIV, as are mouth ulcers and sores. The human immunodeficiency virus could cause inflammation in the salivary glands, leading to decreased saliva production.

Issues with swallowing and a lack of saliva often occur post-stroke. Additionally, individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease may forget to stay hydrated or maintain good oral hygiene, leading to pronounced dry mouth symptoms.

Persistent thirst could signal a chronic disease like Sjögren's syndrome. Other symptoms include dry skin and eyes, fatigue, joint and muscle pain, swelling between the jaw and ears, and a rash particularly following sun exposure.

There are several methods to relieve dry mouth. Regularly sipping cold water, sucking on ice cubes, or chewing sugar-free gum can help. Proper oral hygiene is crucial, as is avoiding excessive caffeine or carbonated beverages.

Avoiding spicy, acidic, and salty foods and snacks may also help. There are mouth-moistening gels, sprays, and lozenges available at pharmacies. If dry mouth is accompanied by other symptoms, a consultation with a doctor is strongly recommended.