The sensation known as “cotton mouth” is medically referred to as xerostomia, which is the subjective feeling of having a dry mouth. This common complaint results from a reduction in the normal flow of saliva produced by the salivary glands. Saliva is important for oral health as it assists with chewing, swallowing, and digestion, and it also contains minerals that help protect teeth from decay. Xerostomia is a widespread symptom that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and oral hygiene.
Addressing the Contagion Concern
Dry mouth itself is not transmissible from one person to another; it is not contagious in the way a cold or the flu is. Xerostomia is a symptom arising from an internal bodily dysfunction or an external non-infectious factor, not from an infectious agent like a virus or bacteria. The feeling of dryness is a direct result of the salivary glands producing less saliva or the consistency of the saliva changing.
Although the symptom is not contagious, some underlying health conditions that cause dry mouth are infectious. For example, oral thrush (a fungal infection) or HIV/AIDS can lead to decreased salivary flow. In these cases, the underlying disease is transmissible, but the dry mouth is merely a secondary physical manifestation that cannot be passed on through casual contact. The majority of dry mouth cases are linked to factors that have no infectious component.
Common Sources of Reduced Saliva Flow
The most frequent cause of chronic dry mouth is the side effect of various medications. Hundreds of prescription and over-the-counter drugs interfere with salivary gland function, often by blocking the nerve signals that stimulate saliva production. Common culprits include antihistamines, decongestants, many antidepressants (such as citalopram and venlafaxine), and certain medications used to treat high blood pressure, like diuretics and beta-blockers.
The likelihood of experiencing xerostomia increases with the total number of medications a person takes, a phenomenon known as polypharmacy. This is why older adults frequently report the symptom, often due to the higher number of drugs they take rather than aging alone. Adjusting the dosage or switching to an alternative medication can sometimes alleviate the dryness, but this must only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Beyond pharmaceutical causes, certain lifestyle habits can significantly contribute to reduced moisture in the mouth. Simple dehydration is a temporary but common trigger for dry mouth as the body attempts to conserve water. Chronic mouth breathing, especially during sleep, causes excessive evaporation of saliva, leading to persistent dryness upon waking. Tobacco use (smoking or chewing) and regular alcohol consumption can also aggravate or directly cause symptoms of dry mouth.
Systemic Health Conditions
Several systemic health issues can also directly impair salivary gland function. Autoimmune conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome specifically target and damage the glands that produce tears and saliva, leading to severe and chronic dryness. Uncontrolled diabetes can affect hydration and nerve function, contributing to xerostomia. Cancer treatments, particularly radiation therapy directed at the head and neck region, can cause irreversible damage to the salivary glands, severely limiting their ability to produce saliva.
Practical Strategies for Managing Dry Mouth
Immediate relief for a dry mouth often involves stimulating remaining salivary function or replacing lost moisture. Sucking on sugar-free candies or chewing sugar-free gum is an effective method, as the physical action encourages the salivary glands to produce flow. Choose products containing xylitol and avoid sugar, which can increase the risk of decay already elevated in a dry mouth. Sipping water frequently throughout the day and keeping a glass of water nearby at night can help maintain moisture levels.
For more persistent dryness, various over-the-counter products are formulated to help manage symptoms. Artificial saliva substitutes, available as sprays, gels, or lozenges, can temporarily lubricate the mouth and throat. When choosing a mouthwash, select an alcohol-free product, as alcohol can have a drying effect and further irritate oral tissues. Using a cool mist humidifier in the bedroom at night is another effective measure, especially for those who breathe through their mouth while sleeping.
If dry mouth persists despite these home care measures, or if it is severe and accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult a dentist or physician. Persistent symptoms increase the risk of oral health complications like tooth decay and fungal infections. A healthcare professional can review the patient’s medication list to see if a dosage change or substitution is possible, or perform tests to rule out an underlying systemic disease.