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What Could Be Causing My Constant Need To Suck On Something Or Chew Gum, Violent Coughing If I Stop, And A Sensation Of Dryness In My Mouth?
I have this need to constantly suck on nothing, candy or chew gum. I almost imagine it being like sucking on candy or the stereotypical sucking thats shows depict people with dentures doing... all the time. Before anyone questions, yes, 99.9% of the time except when sleeping. I ve tried stopping and if I do, eventually I will cough violently. Not an ordinary cough either. More like an uncontrollable pre vommiting/dry heaving or choking head exploding cough that isn t fun at all. This all pairs with my mouth FEELING like it is dry (it is not actually, my teeth, gums and the rest are coated in saliva) If someone does share this symptom let me know. I do not have reflux, hoarseness, heartburn or practically any other gerd related symptom. Went to ENT and they diagnosed it silent reflux because I mentioned occasionally I get a golf ball feeling in my theoat but they seemingly ignored my main symptom.
posted on
Tue, 1 Aug 2023
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Wed, 8 Jan 2025
Answered on
Mon, 3 Feb 2025
Last reviewed on
Hello,
The symptoms you're describing—constant need to suck on something may be indicative of dry mouth, or xerostomia. A condition when there is insufficient saliva to keep the mouth moist, hence sensation of dryness that may prompt you to chew gum or suck on something to stimulate saliva production.
Dry mouth can also trigger a cough, as the throat becomes irritated from lack of moisture. Take sufficient fluid and water. Make sure to breathe through the nose and not the mouth while sleeping. Certain antihistamines, antidepressants, and decongestants can cause dry mouth. Avoid them.
It may be a behavioral issue linked to stress or anxiety. Individuals with OCD may develop compulsions such as needing to chew or suck on things, which could also cause physical symptoms like coughing when the compulsion is resisted. Do not smoke or vape, consider cutting back or quitting to reduce irritation to the throat. Get clinically examined by a GP to rule out OCD, diabetes, or sinus issues.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K, General & Family Physician
The symptoms you're describing—constant need to suck on something may be indicative of dry mouth, or xerostomia. A condition when there is insufficient saliva to keep the mouth moist, hence sensation of dryness that may prompt you to chew gum or suck on something to stimulate saliva production.
Dry mouth can also trigger a cough, as the throat becomes irritated from lack of moisture. Take sufficient fluid and water. Make sure to breathe through the nose and not the mouth while sleeping. Certain antihistamines, antidepressants, and decongestants can cause dry mouth. Avoid them.
It may be a behavioral issue linked to stress or anxiety. Individuals with OCD may develop compulsions such as needing to chew or suck on things, which could also cause physical symptoms like coughing when the compulsion is resisted. Do not smoke or vape, consider cutting back or quitting to reduce irritation to the throat. Get clinically examined by a GP to rule out OCD, diabetes, or sinus issues.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K, General & Family Physician
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