Chronic Dry Mouth
Sometimes a human body can turn against itself and the immune system can attack its own body tissues. That type of behavior is known as an autoimmune disease and chronic dry mouth can be a symptom of two of them. Xerostomia, (AKA dry mouth) is when the flow of saliva is reduced "...and may lead to difficulty swallowing and speaking, chronic sore throat, hoarseness, frequent thirst, oral yeast infection or dried nasal passages," (1-800-DENTIST). Everyone experiences dry mouth on occasion, however if the condition endlessly lingers on, it could be an indicator of diabetes or Sjogren's Syndrome.
Diabetes is a disease that impacts how a body uses blood sugar (AKA glucose). Regardless of if a person has diabetes 1 or 2, the problem is that there is too much glucose moving through their blood streams. It is estimated that approximately 24 million individuals have the disease in the nation and dry mouth or a case of oral thrush are potential oral indicators of the predicament.
Approximately four million Americans (mostly women in their 40s) suffer with Sjogren's Syndrome. This illness is marked when white blood cells attack moisture-producing glands. The reasons why this occurs are unknown, but if left unchecked it can cause kidney, liver, nervous system and pancreatic issues. The most predominate symptoms are dry mouth and dry eyes.
Festering Sores
While having an oral sore is nothing to panic about, if one lingers about for more than a few weeks, it may be a sign of oral cancer. Annually, 30,000 individuals are diagnosed with the condition and when left unchecked it can be fatal. Early detection can generate a recover rate of 80 to 90 percent and individuals who spot a festering white or red sore (as opposed to a healthy pink) should seek the professional counsel of a dentist just in case.
Fortunately, all the conditions are treatable and early diagnosis backed by dealing with the situation head on is essential to managing the disorders. A dentist is part of the medical team needed to combat the symptoms associated with the conditions and 1-800-DENTIST can help those in need find a qualified practitioner up to the task.