Diabetes and Dry Mouth – Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
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Do you ever feel like your mouth is constantly dry and sticky, even after drinking water?
We often take it lightly, assuming it could be due to not drinking enough water, but this could be a sign of dry mouth or xerostomia, which is very common if you have diabetes.
Although it might seem like a minor issue, it can cause significant discomfort and dental problems. Let’s learn about dry mouth in diabetes and how to manage it if you are already suffering from it.
080694 50746What is Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth occurs when the mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva, which causes it to become dry. This can cause a constant dry or sticky feeling, making it difficult to talk, chew, and swallow.
It can also increase the risk of other mouth-related problems like cavities, gum disease, and mouth infections.
Did you know that a persistent dry mouth can lead to gum infections and serious conditions like gingivitis, and is linked to diabetes & heart disease, and stroke?
What are the Symptoms of Dry Mouth?
Although people may experience dry mouth for various reasons, one of the most common causes is diabetes.
says that 22% of people worldwide experience dry mouth for various reasons, including diabetes.
Some Diabetes Dry Mouth Specific Symptoms
- Frequent thirst
- A sticky and dry sensation in the mouth
- Mouth sores, cracked lips, or sores at the corners of the mouth
- A dry feeling in the throat
- A burning or tingling sensation in the mouth, especially on the tongue
- Redness and dryness of the tongue
- Trouble speaking, tasting, chewing, or swallowing
- Bad mouth breath/smell
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What are the Causes of Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth in people with diabetes can be due to several factors:
1. High Blood Sugar: If your blood sugar levels are consistently high, this can reduce the saliva flow. For example, you might notice that your mouth is constantly dry and sticky even after drinking water.
2. Medication Side Effects: Various medications you might take for diabetes and related conditions can cause dry mouth.
3. Nerve Damage: Diabetes can cause nerve damage, which may affect the nerves controlling your salivary glands, reducing saliva production. This can make your mouth feel constantly dry.
4. Dehydration: People with diabetes often become dehydrated, particularly if their blood sugar levels are not well-controlled. This can worsen dry mouth. For example, during summer or if they forget to drink enough water, they might find their mouths feeling unusually dry.
According to our expert diabetologist, Dr. Vidya, “Dryness in the mouth is one of the most common symptoms in people with diabetes, but it can also be seen in the general population. Therefore, it’s important to talk to your doctor, as there could be other causes which can be diagnosed and treated under expert guidance.”
What are the Risk Factors of Dry Mouth?
Certain factors can increase the risk of developing dry mouth in diabetes:
- Poor Diabetes Management or uncontrolled blood sugar levels
- Elderly people are more susceptible to dry mouth.
- Habitual Smoking or Alcohol Use
How to Prevent Dry Mouth?
Managing dry mouth involves addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes:
1. Manage Your Diabetes: For almost all diabetes-related problems like skin rashes, swollen feet, nail infections, and many others, the key is to improve your lifestyle first. Dry mouth follows the same rule. Begin by bettering your diet, exercising, sleeping, and reducing stress levels.
2. Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth daily (two times a day) and go for regular dental check-ups.
3. Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist.
4. Use Mouth Fresheners: For some people natural home remedies or Mouth fresheners like elaichi (cardamom) or laung (cloves) can also help to keep your mouth moist and provide a refreshing taste. Your doctor may also recommend sugarless chewing gum or sugarless candies , it can stimulate saliva production.
5. Use a Humidifier: Using a humidifier adds moisture to the air surrounding you, which can help you with dry mouth, especially at night. Keep water nearby for extra relief.
6. Visit an ENT Doctor: If dry mouth continues, an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor can examine you to find the cause and suggest the right treatment.
What are the Things to Avoid When You Have Dry Mouth?
1. Avoid Gutka, Tobacco, Cigarettes, and Alcohol: These substances can make dry mouth worse and cause more discomfort and oral health problems.
2. Reduce Caffeine Intake: Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated drinks can dehydrate your mouth, intensifying dry mouth symptoms.
3. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: These can increase the risk of cavities and tooth decay, which are more likely when you have dry mouth.
4. Avoid Spicy or Salty Foods: Such foods can irritate a dry mouth, leading to further discomfort.
How We At Fitterfly Can Help You?
At Fitterfly, we’ve met many members (patients) experiencing dry mouth (Xerostomia), and we understand how uncomfortable it can be.
We know it’s important not to ignore it, and we want to help by addressing its Root Cause↔️Your Diabetes↔️Managing it Well✅.
That’s why our approach focuses on guiding you to make the right lifestyle changes in diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management, which are essential in managing diabetes effectively. Our expert coaches are here to support you in this journey.
If diabetes is causing other issues, we’re happy to help with those too.
To know more about our Diabetes Prime Program and how we can assist you, call one of our program advisors at 08069450746. We’re here to support you.
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This blog provides general information for educational and informational purposes only and shouldn't be seen as professional advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is xerostomia and what causes it?
Xerostomia, or dry mouth, occurs when there is less saliva produced in the mouth, leading to a dry, sticky feeling. This can be caused by high blood sugar levels, medication side effects, nerve damage, and dehydration, especially in people with diabetes.
How can I manage xerostomia effectively?
Managing xerostomia involves good oral hygiene, such as brushing teeth twice daily and regular dental check-ups.
Is dry mouth common in people with diabetes?
Yes, dry mouth is very common in people with diabetes. Factors like high blood sugar levels, certain medications, and nerve damage that affect saliva production leading to dry mouth in diabetics.
What are the complications associated with dry mouth and diabetes?
Dry mouth in people with diabetes can lead to an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, mouth infections, and discomfort in speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Persistent dry mouth is also linked to serious conditions like gingivitis and can indirectly contribute to heart disease and stroke.
Can managing diabetes help improve symptoms of dry mouth?
Managing diabetes effectively through diet, exercise, stress management, and proper medication can help improve symptoms of dry mouth. Keeping blood sugar levels controlled reduces the risk of dehydration and helps maintain proper saliva flow.
