What diseases can dry mouth warn about?

Gastroenterologist, endoscopist Natalia Kurganskaya told Moscow 24 in an interview that a frequent feeling of dryness and stickiness in the mouth can be a symptom of many diseases.

"It could be gastritis, cholecystitis, duodenitis. But they are usually accompanied by other signs: heartburn, a bitter taste in the mouth, white or yellow plaque on the tongue," said the doctor.

According to her, dry mouth can also signal the development of Sjögren's syndrome: this is an autoimmune lesion of connective tissue.

"The patient may also feel dryness in the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. In most cases, Sjögren's syndrome is diagnosed in women over the age of 40," explained the gastroenterologist.

She also reported that dry mouth can also occur with eating disorders such as bulimia, anorexia, or with trauma to the nerves in the head and neck region during surgery and trauma.

Dry mouth can be a symptom of salivary gland disease, where the main channel of saliva is blocked by a stone or infection.

Common complications of dry mouth syndrome include cavities, gingivitis and fungal infections such as oral candidiasis, said the doctor.

 The gastroenterologist also said that the mouth can become dry when the body is dehydrated from excessive sweating, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, blood loss or burns. This is often felt by pregnant or nursing moms because of hormonal changes.

"Mouth discomfort can also be caused by medications for depression, high blood pressure, some antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs and painkillers," the doctor warned.

Until the cause of the discomfort is identified, it is important to carefully monitor your oral hygiene. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day, and rinse your mouth with plain water after meals. In addition, you can prepare a special solution. To do this, you need to add one teaspoon of salt and baking soda in a liter of water.

You should also try to breathe through your nose and not through your mouth, also at night. It is better to avoid caffeine and alcohol and to use humidifiers, especially at bedtime.

To normalize moisture exchange during the day, it is important to drink water or sugar-free drinks - in small sips both with and after meals. Chewing gum or sucking sugar-free candy is a good way to stimulate saliva flow.

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