Tips to manage dry mouth in COPD
Experts, including Ada Cooper, D.D.S., a consumer adviser spokesperson at the ADA, offered tips for attenuating the symptoms of dry mouth among individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who use inhalers.
Although inhalers are effective in treating the symptoms of COPD, patients who use them may be more susceptible to dry mouth, according to a news article from HealthCentral. The experts detailed that several factors can result in dry mouth — including the long-acting muscarinic antagonists found in COPD inhalers, dry powder inhalers and deposition inside the mouth if used improperly.
Dr. Cooper explained that those with dry mouth can experience symptoms such as halitosis, change in taste or taste intolerance, dry and cracked lips, a dry tongue, hoarseness, a sore throat, difficulty chewing or swallowing, thrush, an increase in dental caries and periodontitis.
“Saliva is one of the most effective elements in the defense of the mouth,” Dr. Cooper emphasized, noting that its roles include maintaining the pH of the mouth, delivering remineralizing minerals to the teeth, washing away pathogenic bacteria and keeping a balanced oral microbiome.
Patients using COPD inhalers were advised to rinse their mouth with water and/or brush their teeth after each inhaler use to remove residual drugs, practice good oral hygiene habits, remain hydrated, use a humidifier, refrain from consuming alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, chew sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production and visit their dentists regularly because of the increased risk of dental decay and periodontal disease.
Read more: HealthCentral
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