COTTON MOUTH Meaning and
Definition
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Cotton mouth, also commonly referred to as "cottonmouth," is a term used to describe a specific medical condition known as xerostomia. It is characterized by an uncomfortable dryness and lack of moisture in the mouth. The term "cotton mouth" is believed to have originated from the sensation of having a mouth as dry as cotton, which often accompanies this condition.
Xerostomia is typically caused by a reduction in saliva production by the salivary glands. Saliva plays a crucial role in oral health, as it helps to moisten and cleanse the mouth, aid digestion, prevent tooth decay, and facilitate speech and swallowing. Therefore, the lack of saliva caused by cotton mouth can lead to various symptoms, including a parched or sticky feeling in the mouth, cracked lips, bad breath, difficulty in tasting or swallowing food, and an increased risk of oral infections.
The condition of cotton mouth can be a side effect of certain medications like antihistamines, antidepressants, or diuretics, as well as a result of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or autoimmune diseases. It is important to address cotton mouth to alleviate discomfort and prevent potential oral health issues. Treatment options may include adjusting medications, sipping water frequently, avoiding caffeine and tobacco, using over-the-counter saliva substitutes, and practicing good oral hygiene.
Overall, "cotton mouth" is a term used to describe a medical condition characterized by a dry mouth due to reduced saliva production, resulting in discomfort and potential oral health complications.
Common Misspellings for COTTON MOUTH
- cotto.mouth
- xotton mouth
- votton mouth
- fotton mouth
- dotton mouth
- citton mouth
- cktton mouth
- cltton mouth
- cptton mouth
- c0tton mouth
- c9tton mouth
- corton mouth
- cofton mouth
- cogton mouth
- coyton mouth
- co6ton mouth
- co5ton mouth
- cotron mouth
- cotfon mouth
- cotgon mouth
Etymology of COTTON MOUTH
The word "cottonmouth" has its origins in North American English and specifically refers to the venomous water snake species Agkistrodon piscivorus. The name "cottonmouth" is derived from the appearance of the snake's mouth, which is often described as white or cotton-colored. This arises from the fact that when the snake opens its mouth wide, the white color of the inside of its mouth is visible. The term "cottonmouth" is a descriptive name given to this snake due to this distinct characteristic.
Similar spelling word for COTTON MOUTH
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