CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND PREVENTION OF DRY MOUTH (XEROSTOMIA).

 

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To start with, what exactly is Dry Mouth? 

   

Dry mouth also known as xerostomia is the abnormal dryness of the mouth resulting from decreased secretion of saliva. Dry mouth may be caused by a condition that directly affects the salivary glands.

Saliva is essential in human digestion process. It helps to moisten foods and breakdown carbohydrates, it also prevents infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth. It works as a major defence mechanism to help the body maintain good dental health, protecting the mouth against gum disease and tooth decay.

 CAUSES OF DRY MOUTH

• Lack of sufficient fluids.

• Surgical removal of the salivary glands.

• Smoking tobacco.

• Dry mouth can be a result of nerve damage to the head and neck area from injury or surgery.

• Breathing through mouth.

• Sore throat.

SYMPTOMS OF DRY MOUTH

• Dryness or a feeling of stickiness in the mouth.

• Dry or sore throat.

• Bad breath.

• Hoarseness.

• Difficulty in speaking, Chewing, and swallowing.

• A dry feeling in the throat and cracked lips.

Worried about if dry mouth could be prevented? Don't stop reading yet.

PREVENTION OF DRY MOUTH

• Avoid sugar and acidic foods.

• Sipping water often or sugarless drinks often and during meals.

• Avoid drinks with caffeine such as coffee, tea, and some soda.

• Using humidifier in the room to improve the moisture when sleeping.

• Avoid tobacco or alcohol which dry out the mouth.

Good oral care can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can result from dry mouth.

Thanks for reading! 

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Article by:

Tijani Opeyemi Lydia

Food, Nutrients and Health.

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For other related articles, visit our blog; www.thefoodlegends.blogspot.com

References: 

www.medicinenet.com

www.medicalnewstoday.com