Xerostomia (dry mouth) in patients with COVID-19: a case series

Introduction: Dry mouth has been reported as a symptom of COVID-19. In this study, xerostomia (dry mouth) was reported in patients with COVID-19. Materials & methods: Dry mouth was assessed in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 daily until all of the dry mouth symptoms resolved. Results: Dry mouth appeared in 60% of cases 3-4 days before as prodromal symptom and in others, simultaneously or 1-2 days after the onset of other symptoms. In most cases, with starting the treatment, dry mouth gradually disappeared. Conclusion: Xerostomia in COVID-19 could occur before the common symptoms. Therefore, it could be hypothesized that it could be used for early diagnosis, quarantine and treatment. As a result, disease transmission might be prevented and the best treatment outcomes could be achieved.

Automated summary

Dry mouth was found to be a symptom that could occur before common symptoms in COVID-19 patients. With treatment, dry mouth gradually disappeared. Therefore, it could potentially be used for early diagnosis, quarantine, and treatment.