Dry mouth: A tell-tale sign of diabetes
With around 70 million people suffering from diabetes in India, our country is rightly called the diabetes capital of the world. Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects a huge population all over the world. It can take a toll on your entire body, including your eyes, nerves, heart and kidneys.
Most people are aware of the signs and symptoms of disease, but some people do not show any symptoms at all, which leaves the condition undetected. Some of the common symptoms of diabetes include excessive hunger, frequent urination, irritability and fatigue.
There is one more common symptom of diabetes that can make the condition go undetected. Have you ever woken with a dry mouth in the morning? Well, it can be a sign of diabetes.
High blood sugar can lead to oral health problems. Thus, if you are suffering from diabetes it’s possible that you may develop some tooth problems and gum diseases. Here are some of the oral symptoms you must watch out for:
​Dry mouth
Dry mouth is one of the very first signs of type 2 diabetes, known as xerostomia. Diabetes can cause lack of saliva in the mouth, which can make you feel parched and extra thirsty. It can also lead to soreness, ulcers, infection and tooth decay if diabetes is not controlled.
Gum disease
Do your teeth or gums bleed while you brush or floss? It can be an early sign of gum disease. Diabetes can make your gums bleed and swell, which is known as gingivitis. If not treated on time, it can lead to a more serious infection called periodontitis that destroys the soft tissues and bones that support your teeth.
Tooth decay
High blood sugar levels can increase your risk of tooth decay. Your mouth has many types of bacteria, which when interacting with sugars and starches, form plaque. The acid in the plaque attacks your enamel, leading to cavities and gum disease. Tooth decay, if not treated, can cause pain and infection and even tooth loss.
​Thrush
Oral thrush also called candidiasis is a fungal infection. People suffering from diabetes often have antibiotics to fight infections, which makes them prone to fungal infection in the mouth and tongue. Common signs of thrush include painful white and red patches on the mouth, tongue, gums, cheeks and roof of your mouth. These patches can even turn into open sores.
Practising good oral hygiene can help you avoid thrush.
Burning mouth and tongue
Burning the mouth and tongue is a complex and painful condition. A burning sensation inside the mouth is caused by uncontrolled blood glucose levels, which is accompanied by a dry mouth, bitter taste and burning feeling. The symptoms can worsen throughout the day.
