Causes, complications – Dry Mouth in seniors

1. Dry Mouth in Seniors - Causes, Complications, and Cure Dry mouth Mouth is always considered as the mirror of overall health and each part in it plays an important role in keeping us healthy and active. While tongue is critical in communication and taste functions, the other parts such as teeth and salivary glands play a major role in getting the food digested. Saliva is an essential fluid that breaks down food into particles, starting the digestive process in the mouth. The moistened food particles makes it easier for the digestive system to speed up the process of digestion. Saliva is not just a necessary element in the digestive system but also an essential defence mechanism. It protects the mouth from various diseases such as gum disease, ulcers, tooth decay and dry mouth. Dry mouth, medically known as xerostomia, is a condition where the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva that is needed to run the above mentioned functions. In addition, continued dry mouth leads to bad breath, dry throat and lips. Even though the after-effects of dry mouth can reduce the sense of wellbeing, it is not a serious medical condition. Dry mouth in seniors, in particular, needs prompt treatment as it is observed as a common age-related health issue. Dry Mouth –It’s a Consequence Dry mouth is a consequence caused by a stressful or an anxious event. This is the reason why people give water to someone who is experiencing an anxiety or a panic attack. Dry mouth can also occur as a result of smoking, drinking alcohol, and breathing through the mouth. Drinking less water, dehydration, certain medications such as sleeping pills, and radiation therapy on the neck or head can also lead to dry mouth. Medical Conditions that Cause Dry Mouth

2. Dry mouth can be observed as a symptom of onset medical conditions such as diabetes, yeast infection inside the mouth, Alzheimer’s Disease, and cystic fibrosis. Caring for Dry Mouth As stated earlier, dry mouth is not a serious medical condition but it can be embarrassing if not cared for properly. The ulcers inside the mouth, lips and at the sides of the lips make it difficult to eat, drink or talk. Also, it can cause bad breath and needs elderly dental care. Treatment for Dry Mouth As dry mouth is a common health condition and occurs as a result of lifestyle and medication choices, your doctor will review the patient’s medical history and ask questions about lifestyle. Followed by the physical examination, your doctor might suggest a blood test to calculate the amount of saliva being produced and to determine the root cause of the issue. If the salivary glands are producing less than the normal quantity, the doctor will prescribe medications that help you produce more saliva. If the issue is with the medication, he or she might suggest a few alternative medications or modify the doses. If there is tooth decay, the person needs to consult the dental care specialist for further treatment. Dry Mouth – The Ways to Avoid It Drinking a lot of water is the primary solution for many health conditions, even for dry mouth too. Hydrate yourself regularly and take good care of your mouth by brushing at least twice a day and flossing. Stay away from sugary, salty and oily foods and watch your diet especially if you are advancing in age. Avoiding coffee and tea does a whole lot of good as caffeine is known for taking the health away from teeth. Fruits such as apples are considered as the natural mouth washers. It not only helps you clean the mouth giving a refreshing feel but also fulfills your daily nutritional needs. Lifestyle changes are proven to be effective for dry mouth but if you are experiencing bleeding in gums, bad breath, thick saliva, rough tongue, cracked lips, and reduced or no sense of taste.

3. In elders, it is recommended to consult the dental doctor for seniors as dry mouth can cause severe tooth decay and bad breath. Fortunately many home healthcare service providers are offering dental care at home for seniors. You can avail services from them to prevent the travel considering the pandemic situation.