SIDE EFFECT OF MEDICINE Hundreds of drugs can cause dry mouth. These include pain relievers, medicines for depression, cold, high blood pressure and allergies medicines are the most common cause of Xerostomia.
COMPLICATION OF DISEASES AND INFECTIONS Several diseases are associated with dry mouth . They include blood pressure and HIV infection. Xerostomia also occurs with Sjogren’s syndrome. In this disease, the body’s antibodies attack the salivary and tear glands. Some viral infections such as mumps, also affect saliva production and cause Xerostomia.
DEHYDRATION Any condition that leads to loss of body fluids can also cause Xerostomia. These conditions include fever, excessive sweating, vomiting.
RADIATION THERAPY Xerostomia is a common side effect of radiation therapy to treat cancers in the head neck.
SURGICAL REMOVAL OF SALIVARY GLAND If a mass develops in a salivary gland then surgical removal of the gland may be recommended. This leads to Xerostomia.
EFFECTS OF XEROSTOMIA
Due to the lack of saliva, one of the key problems faced by Xerostomia patients has dental decay. Saliva is the mouth’s most important natural defense against caries.