What Are the Common Causes of Dry Mouth and Throat?

Many people may have experienced the problem of dry mouth. It is usually caused by dehydration, a dry environment, or some health issues. Imagine when you haven't drunk enough water on a hot summer day; doesn't the feeling of dry mouth become particularly noticeable? But if this sensation persists after drinking water, it's something to pay attention to, as there may be other underlying causes. Sometimes, dry mouth can be due to small habits in our lives, such as consuming excessive amounts of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, which can lead to dehydration. Additionally, certain medications may also cause dry mouth, like antihistamines and blood pressure-lowering drugs. They affect the secretion of salivary glands, resulting in dryness in the mouth. Furthermore, stress and anxiety are also contributing factors. When we are tense, the body secretes more adrenaline, which indirectly reduces saliva production. Of course, dry mouth can also be a sign of certain health problems. For instance, diabetics often feel thirsty, which is related to elevated blood sugar levels. There are also immune system diseases, such as Sjögren's syndrome, that directly affect the function of salivary glands, leading to dry mouth. Moreover, endocrine disorders like hyperthyroidism may also trigger similar symptoms.

To address dry mouth, we can take some simple measures to alleviate it. Firstly, ensure adequate water intake every day, especially after exercise or on hotter days. Secondly, minimize the consumption of caffeine and alcohol, and opt for sugar-free chewing gum or candies containing xylitol to stimulate saliva production. If dry mouth is caused by medication, consult your doctor to see if there are alternative options. For persistent dry mouth symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to screen for potential health issues. In general, although dry mouth is common, it should not be taken lightly. By paying attention to daily diet and lifestyle habits, as well as being sensitive to bodily signals, we can better prevent and address this issue. I hope these tips can help you bid farewell to the trouble of dry mouth.