Xerostomia in elderly

The authors have discussed xerostomia, which is also called a subjective feeling of dryness in oral cavity caused by decreased salivation. They have characterised the pathophysiology of this process, emphasising the physiological significance of proper salivation and saliva composition. They have underlined the fact that xerostomia is most frequently a symptom of co-existent systemic diseases and very rarely a separate ailment. The diseases which can impair the secretory glands are AIDS, hyperthyroidism, type I diabetes, lithiasis, salivary gland inflammations, pernicious anaemia, avitaminosis (B1, B2, B6 i B12). The elderly might experience xerostomia alongside Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s. The attention here has been paid to the fact that xerostomia might be a consequence of a range of medications. The significance of diet for mucosal lesions in the elderly has been discussed.