The Most Common Cause of Xerostomia in the Elderly — And Why Is It Important?
Xerostomia, the self-perception of dry mouth, affects about 20% of the general global population and at least 30% of the population aged 65+. According to a study entitled, "Common Precipitating Factors of Xerostomia in the Elderly," the most common cause of xerostomia in the elderly is medication, typically gastrointestinal, psychotropic, and antihypertensive drugs. But why is this important to know?