From the Guidelines
Vitamin A deficiency is the most likely cause of xerostomia (dry mouth) among the options provided, as it can affect epithelial tissues throughout the body, including those in the mouth, leading to symptoms such as dryness and potentially xerophthalmia 1. When considering the potential causes of xerostomia, it's essential to evaluate the role of various vitamin deficiencies.
- Vitamin A deficiency has been reported to cause symptoms such as benign intracranial hypertension, facial palsy, and xerophthalmia, which can progress to conjunctival dryness and corneal ulceration 1.
- While other vitamin deficiencies, such as those of the B vitamins, can also contribute to dry mouth, the provided evidence suggests a stronger link between vitamin A deficiency and epithelial tissue health 1. To address vitamin A deficiency-related dry mouth, it's crucial to ensure adequate vitamin A intake, which can be achieved through supplementation or dietary changes.
- The recommended supplementation amounts for vitamin A are dependent on serum values and supplement form, with retinol (preformed) starting low and adapting rapidly to target normal serum reference range, and beta carotene (provitamin A) prescribed at 1 mg/kg/day (maximum 50 mg/day) for 12 weeks, followed by a maintenance dose (maximum 10 mg/day) 1.
- Additionally, maintaining good hydration, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and using alcohol-free mouthwashes or saliva substitutes can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
From the Research
Vitamin Deficiency and Xerostomia
- Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, can be caused by various factors, including vitamin deficiencies.
- However, the provided studies do not directly link xerostomia to a specific vitamin deficiency.
- The studies focus on the oral manifestations of vitamin B12 deficiency, which include:
- Glossitis
- Stomatodynia
- Erosions in the mouth
- Atrophic glossitis
- Dysgeusia
- Lingual paresthesia
- Burning sensations
- Pruritus
- These oral signs and symptoms can serve as early indicators of systemic conditions such as pernicious anemia 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency can be caused by gastrointestinal malabsorption, and its diagnosis is often delayed due to non-specific symptoms 2, 3.
- The studies suggest that investigating vitamin B12 levels should be considered in patients presenting with oral ulcers, oral erythema, or burning sensations without an apparent origin 4.
- High intakes of folic acid may exacerbate vitamin B12 deficiency, and public health strategies are needed to improve vitamin B12 status 6.