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Scleroderma is a disease that involves the buildup of scar-like tissue in the skin and can also damage the cells lining the walls of the small arteries. For some, this is the reason they also suffer from Dry Mouth. The disorder is considered an autoimmune disorder which results in the immune system mistakenly attacking and destroying healthy body tissue. When this happens, a buildup of collagen in the skin and mouth tissues can create the sensation of Dry Mouth.
Also known as "Crest Syndrome," Scleroderma most often affects people in the 30-50 year age range. It is also more common among women than men. Some people who have a history of being exposed to silica dust and polyvinyl chloride may have a higher tendency to develop Scleroderma than others.
Symptoms Of Scleroderma
The symptoms of scleroderma may vary from patient to patient but most symptoms involve the following characteristics:
- Blue or White coloration on fingers and toes due to cold temperatures
- Hair loss
- Skin that is darker or lighter than normal
- Sores or ulcers on the fingers and toes
- Tight skin on the face
- Dry Mouth
Credit: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
How To Treat Dry Mouth Symptoms Caused By Scleroderma
Dry Mouth is a chronic disorder which affects thousands of people annually. Dry Mouth can be caused by many different factors. Some of the causes of dry mouth are:
- Medications
- Mouth or Tongue disorders
- C-PAP machines
- Diet
- Stress
- Scleroderma
Dry Mouth Solutions
Dry Mouth can be directly related to the condition of Scleroderma. In many cases, it is not. Regardless of the cause of Dry Mouth, it is a condition which drives many people to seek solutions for their ongoing problem.
DIY Home Remedies
Some of the things that someone can do to relieve Dry Mouth at home include some subtle life changes which have proven effective for some:
- Avoiding spicy or hot foods
- Brushing teeth with a non-flavored toothpaste
- Drinking lots of fluids - staying hydrated
- Avoiding stress
- Avoiding caffeine and alcohol (which are known irritants to Dry Mouth)
For some, these home remedies and lifestyle changes can prove effective in relieving at least some of the symptoms they experience from Scleroderma-related Dry Mouth. For others, these are not enough to provide the level of relief needed to combat the irritation; therefore many turn to dry mouth products to find the remedy they desire.
Another Solution: Xylimelts For Dry Mouth
If you suffer from Dry Mouth and the above lifestyle changes are not enough to give you the relief you need, try XyliMelts oral adhering discs. Each XyliMelts disc contains 500 mg of xylitol and oral lubricant which slowly releases to stimulate saliva and coat and moisturize your mouth. XyliMelts discs can be used during the daytime with no effect on talking or appearance. And because they adhere, they are safe to use at night while sleeping when dry mouth is the worst.
Some Final Tips/disclaimer
This site is not intended to serve as medical advice. To control your Dry Mouth, it is always best to first try to locate the root of the problem. Visit your primary care physician to look into what is causing your Dry Mouth and ask them if they can provide medication alternatives if medications are the problem. If the problem is Scleroderma, try XyliMelts for Dry Mouth and see if they will bring you relief from this often irritating and chronic condition.