User:Mr. Ibrahem/Xerostomia

Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is not having enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. Other symptoms may include cracked or dry lips. Complications can include cavities, decreased taste, bad breath, trouble chewing, swallowing, or talking.

Causes include certain medications, Sjögren's, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, autoimmune disease, and radiation therapy. Medications implicated may include diuretics such as furosemide, anticholinergics, antihistamines, blood pressure medication, antidepressants, and chemotherapy. Breathing through the mouth is also a risk factor. Diagnosis is generally based on symptoms.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Drinking sufficient water, chewing gum, stopping smoking, using a humidifier at night, and saliva substitutes may help. The medications pilocarpine, physostigmine, or cevimeline may be used. Outcomes depend on the underlying cause.

A dry mouth is common affected about 20 to 30% of people. It occurs more commonly in older people, due to its association with other health problems rather than it being a normal part of aging. The condition first came to medical attention in 1868. The word itself is derived from "xeros" meaning "dry" and "stoma" meaning "mouth".