Dry mouth or xerostomia is one symptom in CKD stage 4. Through this article, you can learn more about the causes and tips to improve it.

Effects of medication

For patients in CKD stage 4, if you suddenly experience dry mouth, it may be the effect of a certain type of medication, and this is the major cause of dry mouth. Taking medications to treat symptoms in CKD stage 4, such as hypertension, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea, depressants, may cause dry feeling in mouth.

Tips: If this symptom is persistent and severe, you can talk to your doctor to change the dosage or take other medicines.

Shortage of saliva

It may be caused by shortage of saliva. Parasympathetic nervous system controls salivary glands, which are responsible for secreting saliva. Patients in CKD stage 4 always suffer shortage of some minerals, which may cause nervous system disorders. In this condition, patients may suffer shortage of saliva.

Tips: For these patients, they should take some tests to find out which mineral they lack and take some supplements. In addition, you can also turn to our Online Doctor and they can recommend some foods to improve this condition.

Dehydration

Dehydration can be a direct result of too much sweating, vomiting and diarrhea, which are also common in CKD stage 4. When too much liquid escapes from the body, dehydration will occur and it can cause dry mouth.

Tips: In this condition, patients should supplement some electrolytes and water. However, if the condition is severe, patients should take timely treatment, since it can be life-threatening.

For patients in CKD stage 4, if they have sensation of dry mouth, they can refer to the above contents to improve their conditions. If you need any help, you can email us renal-disease@hotmail.com.