Dry mouth when sleeping, also known as xerostomia, can be caused by various factors. Common causes include:

• Mouth Breathing or Sleeping with Mouth Open: Breathing through the mouth, often due to nasal congestion or habits, leads to saliva evaporation, resulting in dryness.

• Nasal Congestion or Allergies: Blocked nasal passages cause breathing through the mouth, contributing to dry mouth at night.

• Snoring and Sleep Apnea: These conditions can force airflow through the mouth, increasing dryness.

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water throughout the day reduces saliva production, leading to dryness.

• Medications: Certain medicines like antihistamines, antidepressants, and diuretics can decrease saliva production.

• Aging and Hormonal Changes: Especially in postmenopausal women or those with chronic health conditions.

Other contributing factors include tobacco and alcohol use, certain medical conditions (like diabetes or stroke), and side effects of treatments such as chemotherapy.

Prevention tips

• Humidify the bedroom and stay well-hydrated.
• Use nasal strips or treatments to improve nasal airflow.
• Avoid spicy, sugary, and acidic foods before bed.
• Use dry mouth-specific mouth rinses and fluoride products.
• Limit alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine intake.

Would you like more information about managing dry mouth or associated health conditions?