Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Medical History

Medical history (history of illness) represents an important component in the diagnosis of xerostomia (dry mouth). Family history

Social history

  • Is there any evidence of psychosocial stress or strain due to your family situation?

Current medical history/systemic history (somatic and psychological complaints).

  • How long has the dry mouth been present?
  • Have you noticed any other symptoms besides dry mouth, such as an unpleasant taste in your mouth or bad breath?
  • What other complaints do you have in the area of the mouth (eg, burning mouth and tongue), dry mucous membranes, chewing difficulties (when eating dry food), etc.?
  • Do you have pain when speaking, chewing and swallowing?
  • Do you suffer from eye dryness?
  • Do you have other complaints such as loss of appetite, diarrhea, pharyngitis, etc.?

Vegetative anamnesis including nutritional anamnesis.

  • Do you breathe through the mouth?
  • Do you snore?
  • How much fluid do you drink per day?
  • Do your dietary and stimulant habits (e.g., caffeine and alcohol consumption) affect saliva production?
  • What is your daily urine output (have it measured if necessary)?

Self history incl. medication history.

Medication history

Environmental history

  • Dry indoor air