The Problem of Dry Mouth in Diabetes: Causes and Solutions
Healthful Vitality | 08/26/2021 | By NP Team |The Problem of Dry Mouth in Diabetes: Causes and Solutions
There are numerous misunderstandings about diabetes, like it is just a disease of high blood sugar levels. However, diabetes affects the metabolism of all the nutrients. Diabetes even causes changes in fluid and electrolyte balance. It means that saliva production is also influenced, leading to dry mouth in many.
Classically, diabetes has been described with the help of 3Ps; polyphagia, polydipsia, polyurea. Which means an urge to eat more, pee more, and drink more. It is because, despite the high levels of blood sugar, glucose is not entering the cells, leaving them starved and dehydrated.
Xerostomia – one of the complications of diabetes
As diabetes progresses, so do its complications. Diabetes is especially bad for large and small blood vessels and the nervous system.
Xerostomia is a scientific term to describe the low production of saliva. Although this issue is common in diabetes, the problem of dry mouth is most commonly felt at night. This is because most body processes slow down at night, and the person is less likely to drink water.
Researchers think that xerostomia or dry mouth in diabetes is associated with neuropathy. [1] There is a decreased production and flow of saliva due to weakened nerves. It is primarily because of the poor functioning of the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for maintaining saliva production at night. As a result, xerostomia considerably increases the risk of oral infections and other issues.
Studies show that almost half of all living with diabetes may complain about dry mouth at night. Interestingly enough, it appears to be much more common in females. These individuals are more likely to have other complaints like vaginal dryness, ocular dryness, and other symptoms of water loss.
Is dry mouth at night in diabetes a cause of concern?
It is a cause for concern. How much one should be concerned with would depend on the severity of the condition and its onset.
If onset is sudden, it may point to progress in diabetes and ineffectiveness of treatment. It may even be due to certain new medications prescribed by the doctor, like diuretics to control blood pressure or anti-depressants for managing nerve pain and mood disorders.
If the onset is gradual, it may indicate poorly controlled diabetes. It is no secret that most individuals living with diabetes fail to meet therapeutic targets.
Tips for maintaining oral health in diabetes
- Control blood sugar levels, and try keeping A1C below 7 or lower. It will considerably reduce the risk of various complications, including dry mouth at night.
- Drink plenty of water during the day to stay hydrated.
- Take care of oral health by cleaning teeth at least twice a day. Using mouth wash before going to bed may also help.
- Visit your dentist more frequently to ensure optimal oral health and manage oral problems early enough.
- Consider using a humidifier, as higher humidity may help reduce episodes of dry mouth. On the contrary, the problem may be made worse by air conditioning.
A dry mouth may not sound like a significant problem. But, nonetheless, it may indicate worsening of diabetes. It is like an alarm bell warning that there is an urgent need to get a checkup and strictly control blood sugar levels.
Reference
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus, xerostomia, and salivary flow rates. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1079210401559375