Dry mouth
Natural Standard Bottom Line Monograph, Copyright © 2009 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. You should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
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Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, AIDS, antihistamine, anxiety, autoimmune disease, Bell's palsy, bone marrow transplants, carboxymethylcellulose, cavity, chemotherapy, dental caries, dentrifice, depression, endocrine disorders, fluoride toothpaste, HIV, human immunodeficiency virus, hydroxyethylcellulose, nutritional deficiencies, Parkinson's disease, pilocarpine, psychotropic drug induced xerostomia, radiation, rheumatoid arthritis, saliva, saliva stimulant, saliva substitute, salivary stimulant, sialagogue, sialometry, Sjogren's syndrome, stress, xerostomia. |
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Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a
reduction of saliva production. Xerostomia is a common problem, and it is important not to ignore a dry mouth.
Xerostomia is not a disease, but it may be a symptom of various medical conditions, a side effect of a radiation to the head and neck, or a side effect of a wide variety of medications. |
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The average healthy adult produces about three pints of saliva in 24 hours. This secretion serves many purposes. Saliva is important in the digestive process of breaking foods down
for absorption and use by the body. Saliva washes away food and plaque from the teeth and helps prevent tooth decay. Saliva also limits bacterial growth that can dissolve tooth enamel or lead to mouth infections. Saliva neutralizes damaging acids in the mouth, enhances the ability to taste food, and makes it easier to swallow. |
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Xerostomia is a common complaint found often among older adults, affecting approximately 20% of the elderly. Mouth dryness may be due in part to the effects of aging. According to proposed theories, as individuals age, the salivary glands may secrete less saliva. |
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Xerostomia may be caused by medications, such as antihypertensives, antidepressants, analgesics, tranquilizers, diuretics, chemotherapy, and antihistamines. Xerostomia may also be caused by other health conditions, such as bone marrow transplants, endocrine disorders, stress, depression, nerve damage to the neck of face areas, and Sjogren's syndrome (an autoimmune disease). Also, radiation treatment that is focused on or near the salivary gland can temporarily or permanently damage the salivary glands. |
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Content available for subscribers only.
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Natural Standard Monograph
(www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2009 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or
reproduction prohibited.
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The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes
only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns.
Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical
practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be
interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a
qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies,
diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.
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