Yes, COVID-19 can cause dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. This symptom can affect people who are infected with the virus and may occur before other symptoms of COVID-19 begin. The exact cause of dry mouth in COVID-19 patients is not yet fully understood, but researchers believe it may be related to the effect of the coronavirus on the salivary glands, which are responsible for producing saliva. The virus can bind to ACE2 receptors present in the salivary glands and may lead to a decrease in saliva production and thus dry mouth.
The exact frequency and extent of dry mouth in COVID-19 patients vary based on the individual and the study being conducted. A study by the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences conducted a survey of nearly 200 patients and found that 23.9% of them experienced dry mouth as one of their symptoms when they were admitted to the hospital with COVID-19. In addition, 97.6% of patients reported feeling that their mouth was dry, which was more than four times that of the general population.
Although dry mouth typically subsides within a few days to a few weeks as the disease resolves, persistent dry mouth may require medical attention and treatment. If you experience dry mouth as a symptom of COVID-19, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend treatments such as drinking plenty of fluids, practicing good oral hygiene, and using artificial saliva drops to help manage the discomfort.
It is also crucial to maintain good general health, including drinking plenty of water, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, and avoiding烟草 smoking, as these steps can help prevent dry mouth and improve overall oral health.
