Recommendations for a dry mouth
Some treatments and medications affect or hinder the production of saliva, resulting in dry mouth (xerostomia) that makes it harder to talk, chew and swallow. It may also affect the taste of food and liquids, and may reduce your interest in eating. All in all, it seriously promotes malnutrition. This is why taking action is crucial.
Our 4 recommendations for a dry mouth
1. Don’t stop drinking fluids
You need to moisten your mouth with additional liquids, so sip lots of water throughout the day. A minimum of 1.5 L (50 oz.) daily is recommended.
2. Stimulate saliva production
- Rinse your mouth every 2 hours with a solution recommended by your cancer care team.
- Take small bites, and chew your food well.
- Sip liquids with meals to moisten foods and help with swallowing.
- Add liquids (such as gravy, sauce, milk, and yogurt) to solid foods.
- Try ice chips, sugarless hard candies, and sugarless chewing gum.
- Keep cold water nearby for frequent sips between meals and mouth rinses.
- Rinse or spray mouth often using artificial saliva, which is sold in drugstores.
- Use petroleum jelly, cocoa butter, or a mild lip balm to keep lips moist.
- Citrus, cinnamon, and mint flavors often work well.
- Use a cool mist humidifier to moisten room air, especially at night. (Be sure to keep the humidifier clean to avoid spreading bacteria or mold in the air.)
3. Select food carefully
- Rely on foods that are easy to swallow.
- Avoid chewy candies, tough meats, pretzels and chips, and hard raw fruits or vegetables.
- Avoid alcohol and hot, spicy or acidic food that can hurt your mouth. Find some inspiration in our recipes!
- Avoid tobacco.
4. Seek medical advice
Do not hesitate to consult your healthcare team for additional suggestions. They may prescribe you artificial saliva or other medication tailored to your needs.
