Understanding And Managing Dry Mouth (Waha Maroke).pdf

Dry mouth (Waha maroke) occurs when the body does not produce enough saliva to lubricate the mouth, leading to difficulties with speech, taste, chewing, swallowing, and an increased risk of tooth decay and infections. Symptoms include difficulty in chewing, swallowing, or speaking; thick saliva; sticky dryness; tongue sticking to the roof of the mouth at night; a rough sore tongue; burning sensation; mouth ulcers; cracked lips; oral thrush; pain with dentures; taste changes, and bad breath.

Common causes are illnesses like Sjögren's syndrome, Parkinson's disease, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, anxiety disorders, radiation therapy to the head and neck, chemotherapy drugs, medications for depression, chronic pain, allergies, high blood pressure, nerve damage from injury or stroke, dehydration, smoking, and age-related changes such as menopause.

Treatment involves sipping water regularly, avoiding acidic drinks, eating soft moist foods, adding extra gravy or sauces, choosing easy-to-chew foods, using a humidifier at night, and consulting with healthcare professionals about suitable mouthwashes. Avoiding acidic fruits, spicy/salty foods, dry coarse foods, and sugary sweets is recommended. Moistening the mouth can be achieved by using fluoridated toothpaste, sugar-free chewing gum containing xylitol, oral lubricants like Denta-Med Dry Mouth products or Biotene Oral Balance, applying a mixture of peppermint essence and grapeseed oil, or sucking crushed ice. Regular dental visits are advised to protect against dental decay associated with dry mouth.