If cancer is suspected, the doctor may also order a biopsy.Īccording to a 2015 review, doctors often report that, even though a patient complains of severe dry mouth, the oral mucosa appears to be moist. A biopsy may be done if blood tests, eye tests, and salivary flow tests are not leading to a diagnosis. It may be useful in identifying salivary gland stones and masses.īiopsy: A healthcare professional takes a small sample of salivary gland tissue. Sialography: This is a radiographic examination of the salivary glands and ducts. Collection devices are placed over the duct openings of the saliva glands, and saliva production is stimulated with citric acid. Sialometry: This is a simple procedure that measures the flow rate of saliva. They may also order blood tests and imaging scans of the salivary glands. The doctor or dentist will likely examine the patient’s mouth and review their medical history. stroke and Alzheimer’s disease, although these are more likely to cause a perception of dry mouth even when the salivary glands are functioning appropriately.Some health conditions and habits can cause dry mouth, such as: Dry mouth is more likely if a person exercises or plays for a long time. Tobacco: Either chewing or smoking tobacco increases the risk of dry mouth.ĭehydration: This is caused by a lack of sufficient fluids.Įxercising or playing in the heat: The salivary glands may become dry as bodily fluids are concentrated elsewhere in the body. Injury or surgery: Nerve damage to the head and neck area can result in dry mouth. Chemotherapy can change the nature of the saliva, as well as how much of it the body produces. indicates that radiation to the head and neck can damage the salivary glands, resulting in less saliva being produced. Many of these medications cause dry mouth.Ĭancer treatment: Cancer Research U.K. Medications: Many prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications cause dry mouth, including:Īge: Even though dry mouth is not a typical part of aging, older adults tend to take more medications than the rest of the population.
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