Imagine a quiet morning. The house is still quiet and the light of dawn is just beginning to enter through the window. You wake up slowly, turn in bed, and suddenly notice something strange.
Your mouth is very dry. The lips seem to be pressed together. The tongue feels heavy and rough. You try to swallow saliva, but there is almost none.
Many people at that time think the same thing: “I must have drunk little water yesterday” or “Maybe I slept with my mouth open.”
Then they just get up, have a glass of water and go about their day without giving it a big deal.
But doctors who have worked with older patients for decades are warning of one important thing: Dry mouth upon waking can sometimes be an early sign that something isn’t working well in the body.
Why saliva is so important
Saliva is not just a liquid that moistens the mouth. In fact, it fulfills essential functions for health:
- Protects teeth against bacteria
- Keeps gums and oral mucosa healthy
- Aids in the digestion process
- Reduces the growth of harmful microorganisms
When the body produces less saliva than normal, the natural balance of the mouth is disturbed and different problems begin to appear.
That’s why waking up with a completely dry mouth shouldn’t become commonplace.
1. Medications that reduce saliva production
One of the most common causes, especially in people over 60, is medications.
Many everyday drugs can decrease saliva production, including:
- Blood pressure medications
- Anti-allergic
- Antidepressants
- Some pain relievers
- Medicines for heart problems
Many people take these medications for years without imagining that one of their side effects may be dry mouth upon waking.
2. Breathing through the mouth during sleep
Another common cause is breathing through the mouth while we sleep.
When the air passes through the mouth all night, the mucous membrane dries out and in the morning the sensation of “having sand in the mouth” appears.
