Why do I always feel dry mouth?

Sep 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I have been experiencing symptoms of dry mouth and throat. Why do I constantly feel thirsty?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua

There are several main reasons for the symptom of dry mouth:

  1. Medication side effects: Many commonly used medications, such as antidepressants, antihypertensive drugs, and sedatives, can cause dry mouth.
  2. Disease conditions: Dry mouth may accompany conditions such as diabetes, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and autoimmune diseases.
  3. Lifestyle habits: Smoking, alcohol consumption, and excessive intake of caffeine can also worsen dry mouth.
  4. Physiological changes: With aging, the function of salivary glands declines, making elderly individuals more prone to dry mouth.
  5. Psychological factors: Emotional states such as anxiety and stress can affect saliva secretion, leading to dry mouth.
  6. Environmental factors: In dry climatic conditions, moisture in the mouth evaporates easily, causing dryness of the oral mucosa. Additionally, prolonged exposure to air-conditioned rooms or the use of heating devices can also lead to dry mouth.

If you constantly feel dry mouth and increasing water intake does not effectively relieve it, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, in daily life, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, drink adequate amounts of water, and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods.