Dry mouth in older adults: Causes and treatments

I'm 72 years old, and my mouth is dry all the time. What causes this? Is there anything I can do?

- No name given / Florida

Mayo Clinic geriatrician Paul Takahashi, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

Dry mouth is common in older adults. Mouth dryness may have many causes. As you get older, your salivary glands may secrete less saliva. Thirst and your perception of thirst also can change with aging. Thirst receptors in your brain become less responsive to your body's need for fluids. For this reason, older adults are at increased risk of dehydration.

A common, reversible cause of dry mouth is a side effect of medication. Many medications can cause dry mouth, including:

Antihistamines
Antidepressants
High blood pressure medications
Drugs for urinary incontinence
Chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer

Talk to your doctor about the possibility that medications you take may cause mouth dryness. Rarely, certain autoimmune disorders, such as Sjogren's syndrome, may cause dry mouth.

Methods to reduce mouth dryness include:

Sucking on sugar-free lozenges or chewing sugar-free gum, which can stimulate saliva production
Keeping hydrated by sipping water frequently
Using a humidifier while you sleep
Avoiding caffeinated drinks
Avoiding chewing tobacco

Signs and symptoms of inadequate fluid intake include less frequent urination and dizziness on standing or changing from lying to sitting. These may occur if your thirst mechanism isn't adequately reflecting your fluid needs. Your doctor may recommend a specific plan for fluid intake.