dry mouth (Parkinson’s disease)

A condition in which there is a reduced amount of saliva in the mouth. Many of the anti-parkinson’s medications, particularly the anticholinergic medications and the antihistamine medications, restrict secretions of the mucous membranes (tissues that line the mouth) and inhibit saliva production. This effect causes the tissues of the mouth to become dry and sometimes painful. Difficulty in chewing and swallowing increases, establishing conditions in which infections (including dental problems such as cavities) can flourish. Rinsing the mouth frequently with water helps to clear debris and bacteria and to moisten the tissues of the mouth. Lemon and glycerin swabs, available in drug stores, can soothe sore lips and gums.