How to Fix a Very Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a nuisance, and can cause difficulty when eating and swallowing. Dry mouth can be caused by mouth breathing, autoimmune conditions, sinus conditions, allergies, medications, dehydration and anxiety. You will need to see your doctor so he can diagnosis the cause of your dry mouth. After your doctor diagnoses the reason for your dry mouth, he will advise you on treatment options. There are things you can do to relieve your dry mouth in the meantime.
Instructions
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See your doctor. Your doctor will need to examine you to determine the cause of your dry mouth. He may also request certain blood tests to rule out conditions that can cause dry mouth. Your doctor may also recommend x-rays of your sinuses to determine if you have an obstruction in your nasal cavities that is causing you to breathe through your mouth, which contributes to dry mouth. Make sure to give your doctor a detailed medical history and tell him what medications you are currently taking. Over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines are notorious for causing a very dry mouth.
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Drink water. Plain water will keep you hydrated and keep your mouth moist. Stay away from alcoholic beverages and drinks that contain caffeine because they can contribute to a dry mouth. Keep a glass of water on your nightstand so if you feel dry during the night, you will have your water within reach.
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Try artificial saliva products. You can try alcohol free artificial saliva products that are available over the counter. These products are usually available in sprays or rinses. Do not confuse artificial saliva products with alcohol-containing mouthwashes. Read the labels carefully to make sure the product does not contain alcohol.
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Ask your doctor about prescription medications that help increase saliva production. You doctor may reserve these medications for extreme cases of dry mouth, when other treatments are ineffective.
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Suck on sugar-free hard candies. Sugar-free hard candy will promote the flow of saliva and relieve your dry mouth. Sugar-free gum will also help, because chewing stimulates saliva flow.
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Chew ice chips. Chewing on ice chips helps moisten your mouth. The ice will help alleviate your dry mouth, and chewing stimulates salivary glands to product saliva.
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Tips & Warnings
Limit your intake of salty foods. Salty foods promote a dry mouth and should only be eaten sparingly.
If your dry mouth is accompanied by thick mucous or difficulty swallowing or breathing, see your doctor as soon as possible, as this can be an indication of an infection or serious medical condition.
