What Causes Dry Mouth?

Posted on Wed, 23 Jul 2014

Question: I have dry mouth with little or no saliva in the morning. What could cause that? Am I not hydrated enough?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Dehydration and mouth breathing causes dry mouth

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting this query; I'll make an honest attempt to help you out with this problem.

The commonest causes of dry mouth are:
1. Dehydration
2. Mouth breathing/ snoring secondary to nasal block
3. Smoking
4. Excessive intake of sweets, coffee and fizzy drinks
5. Age relates changes in the salivary glands
6. Certain Medical Conditions such as Diabetes

Hence, according to the history provided by you, dehydration could be the most probable cause of your dry mouth. My humble suggestion to you is to drink adequate amounts of warm water (at least 3 litres a day). Avoid smoking (if any), coffee, chilled food and beverages, and sweets.

Hope this answers your query; I will be available for the follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj