Do you ever wake up in the morning with a cottony feeling in your mouth? Or maybe you feel like your tongue is sticking to the roof of your mouth? If so, you may be dealing with dry mouth.
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition in which your saliva production is lower than normal. Saliva helps keep your mouth moist and helps protect it from bacteria, fungi, and other germs. When your saliva production decreases, it can make it difficult to swallow, speak, and even taste food.
The most common symptom of dry mouth is a feeling of dryness in the mouth and throat. Other symptoms include a sticky, dry feeling in the mouth, frequent thirst, difficulty speaking, bad breath, and a burning sensation in the mouth.
Dry mouth can be caused by a variety of factors, including certain medications, diseases, and lifestyle habits. Some medications, such as antihistamines and decongestants, can cause dry mouth. Diseases such as Sjogren's Syndrome and diabetes can also cause dry mouth. In addition, smoking and drinking alcohol can contribute to dry mouth.
If you're experiencing dry mouth, there are a few things you can do to help. First, try to limit or avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. Also, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. You can also try sucking on sugar-free candies or chewing sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva production. Finally, talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking that may be causing dry mouth.
It is estimated that 10-15% of the population suffers from dry mouth. However, this number may be higher due to the fact that many people don't realize they are experiencing dry mouth. If you think you may be dealing with dry mouth, it's important to talk to your doctor about it so they can help you find the best treatment plan for you.
Dry mouth can be a bothersome condition, but luckily there are ways to help manage it. By making a few simple lifestyle changes, such as drinking plenty of water and avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol, you can help reduce the symptoms of dry mouth. If you're still experiencing dry mouth, talk to your doctor about other treatments that may be available to you.
Fasting can help to reduce the symptoms of dry mouth by allowing the salivary glands to rest and produce more saliva. During a fast, the body is not receiving any food or liquid, which can help to reduce the amount of saliva being produced. This can help to reduce the symptoms of dry mouth and replenish the saliva in the mouth. Additionally, fasting can help to reduce inflammation in the mouth, which can help to reduce the symptoms of dry mouth.