A dry mouth means you don’t have enough saliva. In the case of dry mouth and diabetes, saliva is a serious issue, as it may well mean that you are not keeping your blood sugar under control. Saliva is very important, as it helps to control the amount of bacteria in your mouth. It also neutralizes acids, gets rid of dead skin cells in the mouth, and helps you to chew, swallow, and digest your food. It also enables you to speak, and in general, makes you more comfortable. Most often, it is your medications that cause that dry mouth. Diabetes-related drugs (for high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, diuretics and muscle relaxants) can cause dehydration and hence, dry mouth and diabetes is the result. Other reasons for dry mouth and diabetes is because high blood sugar levels will mean a lower level in the tissues; that flow of fluid out of the tissues causes the dry mouth. Also, your blood will absorb tissue fluid, meaning more frequent urination, which also causes the mouth to become dry.
Is Dry Mouth a Symptom of Diabetes?
Yes, it can be. There is an important link between dry mouth and diabetes. Dry mouth, however, can also be due to many different kinds of drugs, even over-the-counter allergy and cold medicines. It may be as simple as dehydration, or because you breathe with your mouth open. Smoking can also contribute to a dry mouth. You should consider all of these factors when trying to determine the cause of your dry mouth.
What to Do about that Dry Mouth at Night, Diabetes Sufferers, and Your Best Means of Prevention
Diabetes and dry mouth can be especially difficult at night. Certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies, such as iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, fiber and vitamin B6, may cause nighttime dry mouth. People with allergies will likely breathe through their mouth when they sleep, which makes the problem worse, and of course, you go for many hours without water.
There are many things you can do to treat and prevent dry mouth, and diabetes sufferers should follow these guidelines carefully. Make sure you have the necessary vitamins and minerals in your diet, and keep your blood sugar controlled. If you’re taking medications, drink plenty of water so they don’t dry you out. Visit your dentist every six months for an exam to keep your mouth healthy. Clean your mouth after meals and at bedtime, and avoid all foods and liquids with high sugar or salt content. Limit citrus juices and diet sodas. Avoid alcohol, as it causes dehydration, and keep lips moistened with lip balm. Chewing sugarless gum may help, as can a room vaporizer at night in your bedroom. Try to breathe through your nose whenever possible. There are saliva substitutes for extreme cases, when nothing else works.
