Don't overlook XEROSTOMIA

Xerostomia or reduced saliva production is quite universal in the elderly. Other than aging, xerostomia or dry mouth is common in patients with diabetes and as an adverse effect of drugs (eg., ACE inhibitors).

- Dr. Sunil S Chiplunkar

Radiotherapy or chemotherapy patients are burdened with several side effects from hair loss to fatigue, but one very important less spoken of, yet debilitating side effect is the significant loss of mouth function: xerostomia or reduced/absence of saliva. Oral functions including chewing food, salivary digestion, swallowing, and tasting are majorly affected by xerostomia. The lack of saliva, which normally helps cleanse the mouth and neutralize acids, also leads to an increased risk of oral infections, particularly candidiasis (oral thrush). In the case of elderly, dryness can also make it harder to wear dentures and may cause bad breath (halitosis). Unfortunately, xerostomia or dry mouth is said to cause minor inconvenience in medical literature, however, in reality, xerostomia can significantly impact oral and overall health.

Xerostomia disturbs digestion in the mouth