What could be causing dry mouth and a parched tongue every morning upon waking up?
Disease description:
Every morning upon waking, my mouth feels very dry. Before sending my child to morning自习 (self-study session), I have to drink a large amount of water. This has been going on for over half a month. I'd like to ask, what could be causing this constant dry mouth and throat every morning?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
Waking up with a dry mouth and throat every morning may be due to several possible reasons:
1. Environmental factors: Dry indoor air at night, especially during winter when heating or air conditioning is used, can easily cause dryness of the oral and respiratory mucous membranes.
2. Mouth breathing: Nasal congestion or other issues may lead to unconscious mouth breathing during sleep, resulting in increased evaporation of moisture from the mouth.
3. Insufficient fluid intake: Not drinking enough water before bedtime, or an increased bodily need for fluids—such as in conditions like diabetes or Sjögren's syndrome—can contribute to dry mouth and throat.
4. Poor dietary habits: Consuming overly salty, spicy, or irritating foods at dinner may also lead to a dry mouth and throat upon waking.
To alleviate this symptom, it is recommended to maintain adequate indoor humidity before bedtime, increase daily fluid intake, improve dietary habits, and seek medical evaluation when necessary to rule out underlying health conditions.
