Many people experience the discomfort of dry lips and mouth, sometimes leading to cracked lips or difficulty chewing and swallowing food. In severe cases, it can be accompanied by pain and swelling in the throat. So, what causes this condition? It might be a signal from your body indicating a specific health issue, or it could simply be a result of poor lifestyle habits. Below, I’ve summarized six main factors that contribute to dry lips and mouth.
1. Insufficient Water Intake: How Dehydration Causes Dry Mouth and Lips
One of the first things you should check is whether you’re drinking enough water. On average, adults should consume around 1.5–2 liters of water daily. Since 60–70% of our bodies are made of water, dehydration can easily lead to dry lips and frequent dryness in the mouth. If you drink beverages like coffee or soda, this can worsen the situation, as these drinks promote urination and deplete your body’s water supply faster. Instead, make it a habit to drink pure water to keep your body hydrated and reduce the chances of dry mouth.
2. Certain Foods: How Diet Affects Your Mouth and Lips
Dietary habits, particularly the consumption of salty foods, can exacerbate dry mouth. Sodium, which is found in salt, naturally draws water out of your body. As a result, consuming salty foods frequently can lead to dry lips and mouth. High sodium intake is also linked to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other cardiovascular problems. To prevent this, it’s recommended to adopt a low-sodium diet. Reducing salt intake will not only help prevent dry mouth but also benefit your overall health.
3. Mouth Breathing: The Impact of Breathing Through Your Mouth on Oral Health
Breathing through your mouth rather than your nose can also lead to dryness in the mouth. The air passing through the mouth causes moisture to evaporate quickly, making the inside of the mouth feel dry. People who have nasal congestion from colds or chronic conditions like rhinitis often breathe through their mouths. If this is the case, seeking treatment to help you breathe through your nose more effectively is important. Proper treatment can significantly reduce dry mouth and improve your overall health.
4. Stress: How Anxiety and Stress Can Cause Dry Mouth
Stress is another contributor to dry mouth. Many people describe feeling like their mouth is dry when they’re nervous or anxious. Research shows that stress stimulates the central nervous system, which in turn reduces the production of saliva. If you’re experiencing dry mouth, consider if stress or anxiety might be playing a role. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, deep breathing exercises, or other coping mechanisms can help restore proper saliva production and prevent dry mouth.
5. Bad Habits: Unconscious Habits That Can Lead to Dry Mouth and Lips
Certain daily habits can unknowingly contribute to dry mouth. One example is licking your lips when they feel dry. While it might seem like it helps momentarily, saliva evaporates quickly, leaving the lips even drier. Instead of licking your lips, try drinking water frequently or carrying lip balm to keep your lips moisturized. If you spend long hours indoors, ensure that the indoor humidity level isn’t too low, as this can also contribute to dry mouth. The ideal indoor humidity level is between 40–60%. During dry seasons or winter, wearing a mask can also help retain moisture around the mouth and nose, keeping your skin and airways hydrated.
6. Specific Medical Conditions: When Medical Conditions Cause Dry Mouth and Lips
Finally, certain medical conditions may be at the root of persistent dry mouth. Conditions such as diabetes can cause dry mouth due to high blood sugar levels, which lead to increased urination and dehydration. People with diabetes often experience intense thirst and frequent urination, which contribute to dry mouth. Additionally, autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s Syndrome can reduce saliva production, leading to chronic dry mouth. Salivary gland stones can also obstruct the flow of saliva, causing dry mouth and discomfort. If you’re experiencing dry mouth despite staying hydrated, it may be time to visit a healthcare provider for a thorough checkup.