Can Drinking Coffee Cause Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth is not a common symptom of drinking coffee. Dry mouth may be a sign of dehydration, which can be a side effect of drinking too much caffeine. If you develop dry mouth from drinking coffee, you need to call your doctor to determine the cause of your symptoms. Dehydration is a serious medical condition that could lead to further complications.

Coffee and Caffeine

Coffee is consumed by millions daily for its effects on the central nervous system. The beverage contains between 102 and 200 milligrams of caffeine per 8 ounces, according to the Center of Science in the Public Interest. Caffeine is quickly absorbed into your blood stream and affects your brain within minutes of consuming coffee. The caffeine in coffee can make you feel awake, more mentally alert and may make you feel like you have more energy. Drinking a moderate amount of coffee, three 8--ounce cups daily, is considered an amount that will not produce negative side effects according to MedlinePlus.com.

Coffee and Dehydration

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Dry mouth is a common symptom of dehydration. If you develop dry mouth, along with feeling fatigued, extreme thirst and dry skin, you need to call emergency medical personnel. Coffee has been thought to have a significant diuretic effect on the body, but current research does not confirm that though, according to a report from the New York Times. Researchers found no significant difference in urine output with or without caffeine consumption.

Caffeine Overdose

Because caffeine is a drug, you may overdose on the substance without being aware of it. Caffeine is also found in chocolate, tea, certain medications and energy drinks. Caffeine overdose may lead to dehydration and dry mouth, along with heart palpitations, fever, dizziness, confusing, trouble breathing, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, muscle twitching and convulsions. If you suspect that you have overdosed on caffeine, call poison control for further direction.

Treatment

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Dry mouth that results from dehydration is treated with increased fluid intake. Stop drinking coffee and all other beverages that contain caffeine until you regain hydration. If you’re severely dehydrated, you may need to be hospitalized and given intravenous fluids to hydrate your body. Dehydration can lead to death if not treated properly.