Sialagogue
Sialagogue
Sialagogue (pronounced: /saɪˈæləɡɒɡ/), also known as ptyalagogue, is a substance that stimulates the flow of saliva in the mouth. The term is derived from the Greek words "sialon" (saliva) and "agogos" (leading).
Etymology
The term "sialagogue" comes from the Greek words "sialon" meaning saliva, and "agogos" meaning leading. Thus, a sialagogue is something that leads to the production of saliva.
Function
Sialagogues are often used in medicine to help patients who suffer from dry mouth (xerostomia), a condition that can be caused by various factors such as certain medications, aging, or diseases like Sjögren's syndrome. By stimulating the salivary glands to produce more saliva, sialagogues can help alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth, which include difficulty swallowing, speaking, and tasting, as well as an increased risk of oral infections.
Types of Sialagogues
There are both pharmaceutical and natural sialagogues. Pharmaceutical sialagogues include drugs like pilocarpine and cevimeline, which are often prescribed for patients with Sjögren's syndrome. Natural sialagogues include substances like lemon juice and other sour foods and drinks, which can stimulate saliva production when consumed.
Related Terms
- Saliva: The fluid produced in the mouth that aids in digestion and maintains oral health.
- Salivary gland: The glands in the mouth that produce saliva.
- Xerostomia: The medical term for dry mouth, a condition that can be alleviated with the use of sialagogues.
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disease that often results in dry mouth, among other symptoms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sialagogue
- Wikipedia's article - Sialagogue
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