MCQ Detailed View

The term xerostomia comes from the Greek words xeros meaning “dry” and stoma meaning “mouth.” In medical biology and dentistry, it refers specifically to the condition of having a persistently dry mouth due to reduced saliva secretion.

🔹 Causes of Xerostomia

1. 
   

   Dehydration – Not drinking enough water or fluid loss from fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.

   
   


2. 
   

   Medications – More than 400 drugs (including antihistamines, antidepressants, antihypertensives, and diuretics) list dry mouth as a side effect.

   
   


3. 
   

   Medical Conditions – Common in diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s disease, and after head & neck radiation therapy.

   
   


4. 
   

   Nerve Damage – Injuries or surgeries affecting the salivary glands or related nerves.

   
   


5. 
   

   Lifestyle Factors – Smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and caffeine can reduce saliva production.

   
   

🔹 Symptoms

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  Persistent dryness in the mouth

  
  


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  Difficulty swallowing or speaking

  
  


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  Burning sensation in the tongue

  
  


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  Cracked lips or sores in the mouth

  
  


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  Altered taste perception

  
  


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  Increased dental problems, since saliva protects teeth by neutralizing acids

  
  

🔹 Importance of Saliva

Saliva plays a vital role in digestion and oral health. It helps lubricate food, aids swallowing, begins starch digestion with amylase, and prevents bacterial overgrowth in the mouth. Without sufficient saliva, a person is prone to dental cavities, oral infections, and discomfort.

🔹 Treatment & Management

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  Drinking adequate water and staying hydrated

  
  


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  Using saliva substitutes or sugar-free chewing gum to stimulate salivation

  
  


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  Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and caffeine

  
  


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  Treating underlying medical conditions

  
  


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  Consulting a dentist or doctor if persistent

  
  

✅ Key Facts Recap

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  Xerostomia = Dry Mouth

  
  


• 
  

  Caused by decreased saliva production

  
  


• 
  

  Linked to medications, dehydration, and systemic diseases

  
  


• 
  

  Can lead to dental and oral health issues

  
  

👉 Correct Answer: Option 2 – Dry mouth