[Dysphagia] Xerostomia

[eripley at yahoo.com (Irene Campbell-Taylor)]

It depends on the reason for the xerostomia. The most common is medication side effect. In that case, unless the meds can be changed, d/c or reduced in dosage, very little, if anything can be done. The second is dehydration. Even though he drinks water throughout the day, he may still not be getting enough. This is particularly likely if he has thick, ropy saliva, a sure signs of dehydration. The major risk associated is increased GER with increased risk of aspiration pneumonitis. A dry mouth also breeds bacteria, fungi, dental caries and other undesirables. Some diseases also cause xerostomia. In my experience, once the above have all been examined and eliminated, the only relief comes from constantly sucking crushed ice or something similar. People with Sjogren's still have found no relief from the dry mouth and dry eyes associated with the disease and report that having something wet in the mouth is the only relief. There is an excellent article for dentists at:
 http://www.oralcancerfoundation.org/dental/xerostomia.htm
  In spite of the title, it's not only for cancer patients.


Dr I Campbell-Taylor
Clinical Neuroscientist
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www.interactivetherapy.com