About Dry Mouth & Dehydration

There are many medical causes that attribute to dry mouth and dehydration. Certain medications and illnesses can sometimes cause dry mouth and dehydration. Dry mouth and dehydration can be dangerous to your health if left untreated.

Causes

Dry mouth and dehydration can be caused by the side effects of certain medications. Other causes for dry mouth and dehydration include side effects of medical treatments (such as chemotherapy), vomiting, fever, diarrhea, colds, flu and allergies. Certain diseases such as Parkinson's and cystic fibrosis can cause dry mouth and dehydration. Lack of fluids can also cause dry mouth and dehydration.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of dry mouth include a sticky feeling on the tongue and inside the mouth. Other symptoms include constant thirst, dry and cracked lips and a scratchy throat. More severe symptoms include sores and cuts on the tongue and speech difficulties. Dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps and lack of energy are common symptoms associated with dehydration.

Expert Insight

According to dentists, dry mouth can be caused by different dental issues and can also lead to chronic halitosis (bad breath). Dehydration could be a symptom of a more serious disease or illness and could lead to further medical issues. If you experience dry mouth and dehydration on a regular basis, you should seek medical attention.

Warning

If you start to experience dry mouth and dehydration symptoms, you need to drink tepid water and sit in a cool, shaded area (especially if they are outside). If you experience dry mouth symptoms, it also helps to suck on sugar-free candy, such as mints.

Prevention/Solution

Dry mouth and dehydration can be treated by drinking plenty of liquids throughout the day. If you work in extra dry or hot conditions, you should drink more liquids (more than 8 glasses of water). If dry mouth and dehydration are left untreated, you could faint or experience nausea and vomiting.