The feeling of having a dry mouth is a common discomfort that can stem from many different causes. One of the conditions that deserves particular attention is diabetes, which often includes so-called xerostomia among its symptoms.
Diabetes mellitus is one of the most widespread diseases in the world, and according to the World Health Organization, it affects over 340 million patients. The most common symptoms of diabetes are an uncontrolled increase in the sensation of hunger and thirst, physical malaise, and — in blood tests — an elevated blood sugar concentration. In patients with diabetes, a malfunction occurs in the glucose metabolisation process due to insufficient or absent production of the hormone responsible for this process: insulin.
Some complications of diabetes are well known and routinely monitored, such as vision problems or issues related to peripheral circulation. However, the oral cavity can also be affected. This often results in infections of the oral mucosa or, indeed, xerostomia.
In general, dry mouth can be caused by reduced saliva production by the salivary glands or by changes in the composition of the saliva itself. In the case of diabetes, both factors contribute to the discomfort affecting the oral mucosa.
What’s the connection between diabetes and dry mouth?
Dry mouth is a very common condition, affecting up to one-third of the population. However, in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the incidence of xerostomia increases significantly, reaching as high as 50% of diabetic patients.
In the case of individuals affected by diabetes, a true vicious cycle develops: high blood sugar levels lead to an equally high concentration of glucose in the saliva. The harmful microorganisms that naturally inhabit the mouth — and are normally kept under control by the immune system and the action of saliva — feed precisely on sugars. Faced with a particularly abundant feast, they therefore thrive, leading to conditions such as stomatitis or oral thrush. Furthermore, the presence of these pathogenic microorganisms acidifies the oral cavity; in the absence of the correct buffering action of saliva, this acidity damages tooth enamel.
There are several causes behind dry mouth in people with diabetes, and all should be considered as part of proper disease management.
Patients with diabetes are more susceptible to dehydration. In the presence of this disease, glucose — a type of sugar — tends to accumulate in the blood. The kidneys are therefore forced to work overtime to filter and absorb this excess sugar. If diabetes is not correctly managed with the appropriate therapy, the kidneys may struggle to perform this task: the excess glucose is then expelled together with urine, drawing further fluids from the tissues through osmosis. This leads to dehydration, which is further exacerbated by the tendency towards more frequent urination in diabetic patients.
This overload on the kidneys can, over time, compromise their function. One of the most frequent complications of diabetes is in fact progressive renal insufficiency. If left untreated, renal insufficiency can result in severe kidney failure; even in the early stages, however, the condition leads to difficulties in the management of bodily fluids and, as a side effect, the sensation of dry mouth.
Another major warning sign – and one of the most serious conditions linked to diabetes – is elevated blood sugar levels. Hyperglycemia carries several risks, including long-term vision loss. But even at earlier stages, excess blood sugar can translate into a high concentration of glucose in the saliva as well. This consequently makes people with uncontrolled diabetes more susceptible both to xerostomia as a symptom of hyperglycaemia, and to diseases that count dry mouth among their symptoms. Oral candidiasis or oral thrush, for example, thrives in sugar-rich environments… and for people with diabetes, this can be a matter of considerable concern!
Finally, some medications used to treat diabetes may also list dry mouth as a side effect.
How to Relieve Dry Mouth When You Have Diabetes
A persistent feeling of dry mouth is one of the symptoms that may suggest the presence of diabetes. Therefore, if the condition does not resolve with a few simple measures, it is advisable to consult a doctor for further investigation.
In cases where diabetes has already been diagnosed, the first essential step is adhering to the treatment plan prescribed by a specialist. Taking insulin and other medications used to control blood sugar levels as directed is the foundation for maintaining overall health – and, consequently, oral health as well.
People with diabetes can also adopt healthy habits – always under medical supervision – that help keep the mouth properly hydrated. These include limiting salty or spicy foods and caffeine, avoiding smoking, and paying special attention to oral hygiene. As we’ve seen, the mouth is particularly vulnerable in diabetes, so extra care is often needed.
While certain medications can stimulate saliva production, quick relief from the burning sensation of dry mouth can also be achieved through simple, natural remedies – such as oral sprays like Cariex®. Oral sprays made with natural ingredients, such as baking soda to reduce acidity, xylitol to support dental health, and hyaluronic acid – an intensely hydrating molecule naturally present in our cells – provide fast and soothing comfort. When in doubt, it’s always best to seek professional advice. Living well with diabetes is absolutely possible, and keeping your mouth healthy is everyone’s right.
