Dry Mouth: Symptoms and Traditional Remedies for Relief

Q: Dry Mouth: Symptoms and Traditional Remedies for Relief

Dear online friend Lin xx： You are experiencing bad breath, stomach noises while lying down at night, and hard stools, which may indicate poor gastrointestinal digestion. <br>It is recommended to supplement with probiotics (such as yogurt), as they can improve the gut microbiome,

Dry mouth and dry tongue?

I have recently been experiencing severe dry mouth and throat issues.
My previous lifestyle was irregular, but now I sleep 10 hours a day and have regular meals at set times and portions.
It's been a month, but there has been no significant improvement in my symptoms: 1.
No saliva 2.
White coating on the tongue, with cracks in the middle and teeth marks on the sides 3.
Bowel movements every two days, which are hard 4.
Cold hands and feet 5.
Occasional dizziness and anemia 6.
My stomach makes noises when lying down at night 7.
Bad breath 8.
Occasional weakness in my limbs 9.
Light-colored urine 10.
Phlegm is also light in color.

I hope the doctor can help diagnose my condition.
Since I am abroad and cannot see a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, could you provide an overview of my symptoms? Perhaps something like spleen and stomach deficiency? Additionally, if possible, could you recommend any herbal remedies or dietary therapies? I will try to find the herbs at an Asian grocery store.
I am really struggling with this issue, and it has affected my mood significantly; I am hesitant to speak at school.
Currently, I cannot return home to see a traditional Chinese medicine doctor.
Thank you so much for your help!

Lin xx, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/01

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear online friend Lin xx: You are experiencing bad breath, stomach noises while lying down at night, and hard stools, which may indicate poor gastrointestinal digestion.
It is recommended to supplement with probiotics (such as yogurt), as they can improve the gut microbiome, aid digestion, and prevent constipation.
Once your gastrointestinal function improves, saliva production will increase, and symptoms of dry mouth will also improve.
It is advisable to consume yogurt 150-200 cc about 0.5 to 2 hours after meals.
You can use warm water to bring refrigerated yogurt back to room temperature before drinking.
Avoid consuming it with high-fat processed meats like sausages and cured meats, and do not take it simultaneously with antibiotics such as chloramphenicol or erythromycin, or sulfonamide medications.
Wishing you health and safety! Sincerely, Yen Su-mei, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2020/04/01

More Info

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a condition characterized by a decrease in saliva production, leading to discomfort and various symptoms. Your description of symptoms, including a lack of saliva, a white coating on the tongue, cracks in the tongue, and other systemic signs, suggests that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Symptoms and Possible Causes
1. Lack of Saliva: This is the hallmark of dry mouth. Saliva is essential for oral health, aiding in digestion, preventing tooth decay, and maintaining a balanced oral microbiome.

2. White Coating on the Tongue and Cracks: A white coating can indicate dehydration or an imbalance in oral flora. Cracks in the tongue may suggest nutritional deficiencies or dehydration.

3. Bowel Movements: Infrequent and hard stools can indicate dehydration or insufficient dietary fiber, which can be exacerbated by dry mouth.

4. Cold Extremities and Weakness: These symptoms may suggest poor circulation or a systemic issue, possibly related to hydration status or nutritional deficiencies.

5. Anemia and Dizziness: These symptoms could be linked to various factors, including dietary insufficiencies, dehydration, or underlying medical conditions.

6. Borborygmi (Bowel Sounds): This can occur when the intestines are active, often due to hunger or digestive issues.

7. Halitosis (Bad Breath): This is common in individuals with dry mouth due to reduced saliva, which normally helps cleanse the mouth.

8. Pale Urine: This may indicate adequate hydration, but if accompanied by other symptoms, it could suggest other underlying issues.

Traditional Remedies and Dietary Recommendations
Given your symptoms, it may be beneficial to consider traditional remedies and dietary adjustments that can help alleviate dry mouth and improve overall health:
1. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Herbal teas (like chamomile or peppermint) can also be soothing.

2. Dietary Adjustments:
- Increase Fiber Intake: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help with bowel regularity.

- Healthy Fats: Include sources of omega-3 fatty acids (like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) to support overall health.

- Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: These can exacerbate dehydration and dry mouth.

3. Herbal Remedies:
- Licorice Root: Known for its soothing properties, it may help stimulate saliva production.

- Ginger: Can aid digestion and may help with nausea or discomfort.

- Goji Berries: Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, they are believed to nourish the body and may help with dry mouth.

4. Oral Care:
- Saliva Substitutes: Over-the-counter saliva substitutes can provide temporary relief.

- Sugar-Free Gum or Lozenges: Chewing gum or sucking on lozenges can stimulate saliva production.

5. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): If you can access TCM practitioners or resources, they may offer treatments that focus on balancing the body's energy and addressing symptoms like dry mouth, possibly indicating a deficiency in the spleen or stomach.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may suggest a deficiency or imbalance, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. In the meantime, focusing on hydration, a balanced diet, and traditional remedies may help alleviate some of your symptoms. Remember, addressing the root cause is essential for long-term relief and improved well-being.

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