Xerostomia

 

A reduction in saliva or changes to the content of saliva results in dryness of the mouth and

this can lead to problems such as dysphagia, unpleasant sensation in the oral cavity,

changes in taste and speech is affected.

 This symptom may arise due to dehydration, induced by drugs such as antiemetics (antimuscarinic), local radiotherapy or surgery.

 

 Self help:

Cold sugar free drinks, sips of water regularly may help, chewing on sugar free gums and

pastilles, apply Vaseline (petroleum jelly) on the lips.

 

Saliva stimulants may be useful i.e pilocarpine tablets 5mg administered three times daily stimulates the parasympathetic system to secrete saliva. However, this should be avoided in those suffering from glaucoma,asthma, COPD.

Alternatively, replacement of saliva i.e biotene gel or Glandosane spray (methlycellulose)  can be used.