What Causes Constant Dry Mouth?

The causes of constant dry mouth are considered to be diabetes, diabetes insipidus, Sjögren's syndrome, and other factors.

1. Diabetes:

Patients with diabetes experience increased blood glucose levels, leading to elevated blood osmolarity, which stimulates the central nervous system and triggers thirst and constant dry mouth. Additionally, high blood glucose and urine glucose levels result in excessive urination, causing the body to lose water, which also leads to thirst. Generally, reducing blood glucose levels can significantly improve the sensation of thirst.

2. Diabetes Insipidus:

This condition occurs due to a lack of a certain hormone in the body, causing the kidneys to fail to properly reabsorb water. Consequently, a large amount of water is excreted from the kidneys in the form of urine, leading to dehydration and causing thirst and constant dry mouth. Patients with this condition tend to consume a large amount of water daily.

3. Sjögren's Syndrome:

Patients with Sjögren's syndrome experience thirst and constant dry mouth, but there is no significant change in their water intake and urine output.

In daily diet, it is recommended to consume more soups and avoid spicy and stimulating foods. Eat fruits and vegetables that nourish yin and promote saliva production, such as pears and lilies. Also, consume fresh sour fruits and vegetables, such as hawthorn, apricots, and kiwi. Patients with Sjögren's syndrome should maintain oral hygiene, reduce friction, avoid infections, protect their teeth, and rinse their mouths after meals. Some patients need to frequently moisturize their mouths with liquids to relieve discomfort from dryness, such as chewing gum to stimulate glandular secretion, which can alleviate the discomfort of Sjögren's syndrome.