Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a frequent side effect of radiation or chemoradiation and certain medications. It can become uncomfortable and can make it challenging to speak and eat. Whether your dry mouth symptoms are temporary or long lasting, there are actions you can take to help.
Treatments for Xerostomia
- Water- Sip water throughout the entire day.
- Humidifier- Using a humidifier, especially while you sleep at night, can help. Cool or warm mist will both work. There are a variety of humidifiers, including small, personal models, some even with face masks and many others that just direct steam into the air near you.
- A Water Spray Bottle- Keep a spray bottle with water close and spray inside your mouth when needed to keep your mouth wet. Adding a few drops of aloe or glycerin into the bottle can make it last longer or extend the moisturizing effects.
- Glycerin, also called glycerol- Is an inexpensive, flavorless, and nontoxic ingredient you can find at retail or online. It attracts and retains moisture. Put a few drops of glycerin in water, swish it around in your mouth, and then spit it out. Or you can make an oral spray. Use four drops of glycerin in a small spray bottle of water and use as needed, you do not have to spit it out.
- Sugarless Candy, Lozenges or Gum- Having something in your mouth can trigger your natural saliva production. Cinnamon, citrus, and mint are good choices if they are not acidic or irritating. Look for items with aloe, xylitol, glycerin or other hydrating agents and also sugarless gum with baking soda.
- More Moisture at Mealtime- Sip water between your bites when eating. Adding condiments, soups, gravy, and sauces can also help.
- Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol- Both caffeine and alcohol can cause excessive dryness because they are diuretics.
- Alcohol-free Mouthwashes- Alcohol can dry out your mouth. Most children’s mouthwashes are alcohol-free, and many brands have an alcohol-free option.
- Saliva Substitutes- Ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter products that are available in drops or spray formulas.
- Prescription Pilocarpine Medications- Ask your doctor if these are appropriate for you.
- Frozen Melon or Cucumber- Try a refreshing slice between your cheek and gum for one or two hours. If it does help, keep some slices in a small bag in the freezer and use one or more a day.
- Oral Sprays or Nasal Wash- Keeping your nasal passages moist will also help relieve dry mouth. Your doctor or dentist will be able to recommend some options.
- Papaya Tablets- Papain, the enzyme in the papaya fruit, helps stimulate saliva and digest proteins.
- Acupuncture- Research has proven it can help. One study focusing on acupuncture for eight weeks eased xerostomia in people with cancer who had been treated with radiation.