It can be difficult to tell if
you really have xerotomia or are
just plain thirsty especially if you are not familiar with the signs and
symptoms of the medical condition. It is much easier for a trained professional
such as a doctor or dentist to diagnose this condition.
Some of the common signs and
symptoms of xerostomia are:
·
Dryness in
the mouth is the first and foremost symptom of the development of this
condition. This dryness causes
people to experience difficulties in speaking as well as tasting, eating and
swallowing food. This is because there is not enough moisture in the mouth to
facilitate chewing or speech. Some patients suffer from malnutrition as a
result of this. Difficulties in chewing and swallowing are especially more
dominant with dry and hard foods that require saliva to be properly broken down.
·
Bad
breath. The absence of saliva in the
mouth results in the buildup of bacteria. This is because the saliva has some
antibacterial properties that stem the free growth of bacteria. The absence of
saliva will therefore allow for the multiplication of bacteria. A bacterium
breaks down food debris in the mouth resulting in the formation of foul
smelling gas. Bacteria can also cause pungent breath by causing tooth decay or
gum disease.
·
Dryness of
the mouth can cause chaffed, dry or cracked lips as there is no moisture to
keep the lips moist.
·
The
development of fungal infections in the mouth is often a symptom of dry mouth. These infections include the
development of candidiasis or yeast infections. These infections are manifested
by the presence of a white tongue.
·
The
development of mouth ulcers.
·
Inflammation
of the soft tissues in the mouth including the tongue.
·
Pain in the
tongue (this is also known as glossodynia).
·
The
development of a sore throat.
·
Sticky or
thick saliva.
·
The
increased need or urge to drink water especially in the night.
It is important to remember that
patients with xerostomia may not
exhibit all the symptoms listed above. They may exhibit only a few of the
symptoms above. It is therefore important to see a doctor or dentist for a
conclusive diagnosis.
Severe mouth dryness can result
in serious or permanent conditions that affect the mouth or throat. These
conditions may affect the quality of life of the sufferer. It is therefore
important to ensure that the condition is diagnosed early enough to provide
treatments to prevent its progression.
Click
here: http://www.breezecare.com
