Multiple sclerosis affects the central nervous system and other bodily systems, including the salivary glands, leading to dry mouth and related oral health issues.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition that disrupts the functioning of the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. This disruption leads to various physical and cognitive (thinking) symptoms, from muscle weakness and coordination problems to memory and mood changes. MS can also affect other body parts, including the salivary glands.

Saliva plays a vital role in maintaining oral health by keeping the mouth moist, aiding in swallowing, and protecting the teeth from decay and infections. In MS, the disease can interfere with the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions such as saliva production.

This article explores MS and salivary glands, including the effects, symptoms, treatments, and outlook.

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MS can affectTrusted Source the autonomic nervous system, which controls digestion and other involuntary functions such as the salivary glands’ production and release of saliva.

Additionally, certain medications that people use to manage MS symptoms may contribute to salivary gland dysfunction.

The reduced saliva flow can lead to difficulties in speaking and swallowing and an increased risk of dental issues, such as cavities and gum disease.

What is MS?

MS is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, known as myelin, in the central nervous system. This damage disrupts the communication within the brain and throughout the spinal cord, resulting in symptoms such asTrusted Source:

MS is a chronic and progressive condition, with symptoms varying widely from person to person.

Learn more about MS.

MS-related salivary gland issues can present asTrusted Source:

  • dry mouth, or xerostomia
  • difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia
  • thick or stringy saliva
  • bad breath
  • dental cavities and gum disease
  • taste changes
  • tongue numbness
  • burning sensation in the mouth

MS medications can worsen these symptoms by reducing or thickening saliva, which makes saliva less effective at protecting the mouth.

While salivary gland issues are not typically the first sign of MS, they can develop due to the disease’s effects on the autonomic nervous system. More obvious first signs of MS include vision problems or optic neuritis and neurological symptoms such as numbness and tingling.

Dry mouth and related symptoms might arise as the disease progresses or as a side effect of treatments. Dry mouth is a common symptom of many medical conditions, and while it can occur due to MS, it is not necessarily a sign of MS.

Nonetheless, their presence in someone with a known diagnosis of MS can suggest the disease is affecting more aspects of the autonomic nervous system.

Managing salivary gland issues in individuals with MS involves treating the symptoms and addressing the underlying causes. Treatment options may include:

  • Saliva substitutes or stimulants: Products such asTrusted Source artificial saliva or lozenges that stimulate saliva production can help ease dry mouth symptoms.
  • Hydration: This can involve encouraging regular fluid intake to keep the mouth moist.
  • Medications: Doctors can adjust MS treatments that may contribute to dry mouth or recommend medicationsTrusted Source to enhance saliva production.
  • Dental care: Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices can help prevent cavities and gum disease.

Treating MS itself involves a combination of strategies to manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. Standard treatment approaches includeTrusted Source:

  • Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs): These medications help reduce the frequency and severity of MS relapses and slow the progression of the disease.
  • Symptomatic treatments: Medications and therapies targeting symptoms such as muscle spasms, pain, fatigue, and thinking difficulties.
  • Rehabilitation therapies: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy to maintain function and independence.
  • Lifestyle changes: Diet, exercise, and stress management to improve overall health and well-being.

Learn more about MS treatment.

The outlook for individuals with MS varies widelyTrusted Source depending on the course of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment.

People with a relapsing course of disease who recover well between episodes of worsening symptoms may have a better outlook, as do females.

While there is currently no cure for MS, advances in treatment have significantly improved the ability to manage symptoms and slow disease progression. With proper management, many people with MS can maintain a positive quality of life, though challenges relating to symptoms, such as salivary gland issues, may persist.

A note about sex and gender

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex neurological disorder that can affect various bodily functions, including the salivary glands, leading to dental problems and a dry mouth. These issues arise due to the disease’s effects on the autonomic nervous system and MS medications.

There is no cure for MS, but effective symptom management can help individuals maintain better overall health and well-being.