There are many reasons for having a dry tongue. Sometimes it is not even a problem and could be as simple as you being dehydrated. Drinking plenty of water would solve that. There are, however, some more serious reasons for having a very dry tongue and mouth. These include side effects from drugs, having a cold (especially with a stuffy nose) and anxiety. Another cause is physical trauma to the salivary glands, ducts and nerves.
People with a dry tongue or mouth are often referred to as cotton mouth, but the correct medical term is Xerostomia. Xerostomia can occur for a number of reasons. It is common in smokers and can cause difficulty in eating and speech. Halitosis is a side effect of Xerostomia and it can also have a bearing on the number of cavities a person has. This is because the saliva is not present and is not acting as a natural mineral for the enamel on the teeth. Other causes of Xerostomia include heavy methamphetamine use and chewing without food in the mouth. Elderly people will suffer from Xerostomia on a regular basis. This is mainly due to the side effects of medicines they may be taking. There is no specific treatment for Xerostomia, although there are individual remedies for most of the causes of the complaint.
It is advised that people suffering from a dry mouth should avoid the use of certain medicines such as antihistamines and decongestants. They should also monitor their oral hygiene closely. Drinking fluids without sugar frequently or chewing on sugar-free gum can also be helpful. If people are unsure what is causing their dry mouth or tongue then a visit to a doctor to determine the cause, and thereafter the treatment, may be the best course of action.
People with a dry tongue or mouth are often referred to as cotton mouth, but the correct medical term is Xerostomia. Xerostomia can occur for a number of reasons. It is common in smokers and can cause difficulty in eating and speech. Halitosis is a side effect of Xerostomia and it can also have a bearing on the number of cavities a person has. This is because the saliva is not present and is not acting as a natural mineral for the enamel on the teeth. Other causes of Xerostomia include heavy methamphetamine use and chewing without food in the mouth. Elderly people will suffer from Xerostomia on a regular basis. This is mainly due to the side effects of medicines they may be taking. There is no specific treatment for Xerostomia, although there are individual remedies for most of the causes of the complaint.
It is advised that people suffering from a dry mouth should avoid the use of certain medicines such as antihistamines and decongestants. They should also monitor their oral hygiene closely. Drinking fluids without sugar frequently or chewing on sugar-free gum can also be helpful. If people are unsure what is causing their dry mouth or tongue then a visit to a doctor to determine the cause, and thereafter the treatment, may be the best course of action.