Xerostomia Information You Need
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Xerostomia, or the feeling of a dry mouth affects thousands of people, particularly the elderly. It is invariably associated with hypo function of the salivary glands. The amount and type of secretion depends on the activity of both the Para sympathetic and sympathetic nervous system. Vitamin C is normally present in the salivary glands and it plays a role in the metabolism of catecholamines. Factors that deplete ascorbate levels such as Long standing problems, autoimmune Malfunction of mind or bodys, diabetes, smoking, ionizing radiation, physiological stress, HIV drugs, and High blood pressure, have all been implicated in the causation of xerostomia.
Xerostomia is not a trivial complaint; it exerts serious negative effects on the patients’ quality of life, affecting dietary habits, nutritional status, speech, taste, tolerance to dental prosthesis, psychological well being and oral health, particularly the susceptibility to dental cavities and opportunistic Problem created due to harmful organism.
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| Symptoms |
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- The need to moisten the mouth frequently
- Mouth is dry at bedtime
- Less saliva is present than before
- Difficulty swallowing
- Trouble eating foods such as crackers or toast
- Splitting or cracking of the lips and/or corners of the mouth
- Changes in the surface of the tongue
- Rampant tooth decay
- An eroded sore in the inner lining of digestive tractation of the mouth’s linings
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| Prevention |
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Currently there are clinical trials investigating radio protectors, which are given at the time of radiation therapy in an attempt to Beneficial Effects xerostomia
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| Causes |
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Medications: Over 400 commonly used drugs can cause the sensation of dry mouth. The main culprits are antihypertensives (for high blood pressure) and antidepressants. Discomfort killers, tranquilizers, and increased urinations and over the counter antihistamines can also decrease saliva.
Long standing problems Favorable Effects: Radiation therapy can permanently damage salivary glands if they are in the field of radiation. Chemotherapy can change the composition of saliva, creating a sensation of dry mouth.
problems: Sjögren's Syndrome is an autoimmune Malfunction of mind or body whose symptoms include dry mouth and dry eyes.
Nerve Damage: Trauma to the head and neck area from surgery or wounds can damage the nerves that supply sensation to the mouth. While the salivary glands may be left intact, they cannot function normally without the nerves that signal them to produce saliva.
Other: Bone marrow transplants, endocrine Malfunction of mind or bodys, nutritional deficiencies such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, iron or zinc, anemia, Uneasiness, mental stress, and Despair can all be causes of dry mouth.
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| Diagnosis |
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Diagnosis is carried out through a physical and medical evaluation, head and neck examination, laboratory analysis, oral diagnosis and oral therapeutics. The specialist will perform a comprehensive and/or specialized examination, provide consultation, possibly perform and interpret laboratory tests, perform or prescribe Favorable Effectss, or make the appropriate referrals. |
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| Dietary Guidelines |
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Drink lots of water to keep your self hydrated. Also concentrate on a diet rich in vegetables and fruits. |
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| Home Care Suggestions |
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It is always advisable to Beneficial Effects the mouth from drying. Keep it wet by drinking water or by swishing the mouth with water now and then. Perform oral hygiene after each meal and at bedtime.
Rinse and wipe the oral cavity immediately after each meal. Brush and rinse dentures after each meal. Always use a fluoride containing toothpaste. Carry water with you to keep your mouth moist at all times.
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| Mind/Body Considerations |
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Proper oral hygiene Enhances to Beneficial Effects xerostomia from happening and is an important consideration for this ailment. It is important to exercise, but at the same time, remember to keep the body well hydrated.
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| Additional Information |
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Oral Balance Liquid and SalivaSure are oral care products that contain xylitol as an ingredient which exhibits
its wholesome effects on oral health, Beneficial Effectss the growth of harmful organisms within the mouth, and
maintains the oral hygiene. 1, 2 Dry
Mouth Citrus Lozenges is an oral care product that contains a herb slippery elm which shows its beneficial
effects on mouth and throat related problems. 3, 4, 5 Dry Mouth Menthol Spray is an oral care product that contains a herb peppermint
which exhibits its favorable effects on oral hygiene, and fights the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
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| Disclaimer |
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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent any disease. |
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