Upper Jaw Dryness: Is It Related to Colds?

The upper jaw is very dry?

Why does the upper jaw feel very thirsty, and is it related to a cold? Every time I get a cold, I feel very thirsty, and when I visit the doctor, I am often asked if I feel thirsty.
Even drinking water doesn't help.
Why do I feel thirsty, and how can I resolve this issue?

oo shao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/25

Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine

● There are small salivary glands in the upper jaw, and feeling thirsty is generally not related to a cold; thirst in the upper jaw should rule out trauma, any lesions in the upper jaw, or the use of certain anticholinergic medications (which can cause dry mouth, and some cold medications contain similar ingredients).
If you frequently experience thirst and polyuria, consider the possibility of high blood sugar, diabetes insipidus, or other endocrine issues.
Additionally, if you experience dry mouth (feeling thirsty) and dry eyes, conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome should be considered (though the likelihood is lower given your age).
● If the thirst in the upper jaw only occurs during a cold, you may monitor it; however, if it persists regularly, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from an otolaryngologist, family medicine physician, or endocrinologist.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Chen Tai-Cheng from Taoyuan Hospital's Family Medicine Department is concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2017/01/25

More Info

Upper jaw dryness, or dryness in the oral cavity, can indeed be related to colds and other respiratory infections. When you catch a cold, your body undergoes several physiological changes that can lead to sensations of dryness in the mouth and throat. Here’s a detailed explanation of why this occurs and how you can address it.

Why Does Upper Jaw Dryness Occur During a Cold?
1. Mucosal Inflammation: When you have a cold, the mucous membranes in your respiratory tract become inflamed. This inflammation can lead to a reduction in saliva production, resulting in a dry mouth. The upper jaw, being part of the oral cavity, can feel particularly dry as a result.

2. Nasal Congestion: Colds often cause nasal congestion, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. As a result, many people resort to breathing through their mouths, which can dry out the oral cavity, including the upper jaw. Mouth breathing is particularly common during sleep when nasal passages may be blocked.

3. Dehydration: Colds can lead to fever, which may increase your body’s fluid requirements. If you are not drinking enough fluids, you may become dehydrated, contributing to a dry mouth and throat.

4. Medications: If you are taking over-the-counter medications to relieve cold symptoms, such as antihistamines or decongestants, these can also cause dryness in the mouth as a side effect. Antihistamines, in particular, are known for their drying effects on mucous membranes.

5. Increased Throat Irritation: The irritation caused by coughing or post-nasal drip during a cold can also lead to a sensation of dryness in the upper jaw and throat.

How to Alleviate Upper Jaw Dryness
1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, or broths. Staying hydrated helps maintain saliva production and can alleviate dryness.

2. Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can help keep your nasal passages and throat moist, reducing the sensation of dryness.

3. Saline Nasal Spray: Using a saline nasal spray can help relieve nasal congestion and keep the mucous membranes moist, which may reduce the need for mouth breathing.

4. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can contribute to dehydration, so it’s best to limit their intake when you’re experiencing symptoms of a cold.

5. Suck on Lozenges: Throat lozenges or sugar-free candies can stimulate saliva production and provide temporary relief from dryness.

6. Consult a Doctor: If dryness persists even after your cold symptoms have resolved, or if you experience severe discomfort, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can evaluate whether there are underlying conditions, such as Sjögren's syndrome or other autoimmune disorders, that may be contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, upper jaw dryness can indeed be related to colds due to factors such as nasal congestion, dehydration, and the effects of medications. By staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and taking other supportive measures, you can alleviate this discomfort. If symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is essential to rule out any underlying health issues.

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