Xerostomia

Xerostomia

Normal salivary flow decreases with age. Typical complaints are of a dry mouth, di ffi culty swallowing and speaking, intol erance to spicy , acidic and crunchy food, a loss of taste and denture-wearing issues. Xerostomia is more common among postmenopausal women, who complain of a burning tongue or mouth. Common causes of xerostomia are chronic anxiety states and de pression; dehydration; anticholinergic drugs, especially antidepressants; salivary gland disorders (e.g. SjS); and radiotherapy to the head and neck region. Xerostomia and salivary gland hypofunction diagnosis requires a thorough history and examination as well as documentation with one of the several questionnaires available. Treatments include proper hydration, humidification at night, avoiding harmful dentifrices and crunchy/hard foods and the use of sugar-free chewing gums and lozenges. Medications include lubricants, saliva substitutes or stimulants. Xerostomia

Normal salivary flow decreases with age. Typical complaints are of a dry mouth, di ffi culty swallowing and speaking, intol erance to spicy , acidic and crunchy food, a loss of taste and denture-wearing issues. Xerostomia is more common among postmenopausal women, who complain of a burning tongue or mouth. Common causes of xerostomia are chronic anxiety states and de pression; dehydration; anticholinergic drugs, especially antidepressants; salivary gland disorders (e.g. SjS); and radiotherapy to the head and neck region. Xerostomia and salivary gland hypofunction diagnosis requires a thorough history and examination as well as documentation with one of the several questionnaires available. Treatments include proper hydration, humidification at night, avoiding harmful dentifrices and crunchy/hard foods and the use of sugar-free chewing gums and lozenges. Medications include lubricants, saliva substitutes or stimulants.