A feeling of oral dryness, Commonly known as dry mouth, Xerostomia is a symptom that leads to a lack of saliva. Individuals with a dry mouth do not have enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. It is often associated with hypo-function of the salivary gland and the treatment of this problem always depends on the cause.
The prevalence of xerostomia among the population ranges from 5.5% to 46%. Chronic xerostomia remains a significant burden for many individuals and in particular, may affect speech, swallowing, chewing, denture-wearing, and general well-being.
Fast facts on Xerostomia
- It is more prevalent in the aging population
- It is commonly a side effect of medications
- Symptoms include cracked lips, sticky saliva, and bad breath
- Individuals with dry mouth should avoid spicy food and sugary drinks
Affected age group
| Age | % |
| 0-20 | 2.36 |
| 21-44 | 10.56 |
| 45-64 | 32.95 |
| 65 & older | 54.13 |
Symptoms of Xerostomia
- Cracked lips
- Dry feeling in the throat
- A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
- Frequent thirsts sores in the mouth
- Sores & split skin at the corners of the mouth
Worse effects
- Cavity
- Dry eyes
- Oral cancer
- Sjogren’s disease
Diet tips for Xerostomia
- Increase fluid or water intake
- Use fluoride containing products daily
- Drink ¼ cup of Aloe Vera juice daily to cure dry mouth
To seek guidance on how to treat the disease through natural remedies, consult Dietitian Harpreet on 8728914242