What it means
Also called xerostomia. Many drugs cause it, especially those with anticholinergic effects, such as some antihistamines, antidepressants and bladder drugs. Dehydration, oxygen therapy, mouth breathing, radiation to the head and neck, and some autoimmune diseases also cause it. It makes speaking, chewing and swallowing harder and raises the risk of tooth decay and mouth infections.
For the nurse
Teach sips of water, sugar-free gum or candy, saliva substitutes and good mouth care, and check the medication list for drugs that may cause it.
At a glance
| Spanish | boca seca |
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Related terms
dehydration
A state in which the body has lost more water than it has taken in.
antispasmodic
A drug that relaxes muscle spasms, most often the smooth muscle of the bowel or bladder.
salivary
Relating to saliva, the watery fluid in the mouth, or to the glands that make it.
salivary gland
A gland that makes saliva and releases it into the mouth.