I also chew gum in public because of my xerostomia. It can't be helped. It is what it is. Deal with it. No one has ever reacted to me the way the sales lady reacted to you, but I have no problem telling people why I chew gum even if they don't ask. Sometimes, I start the conversation just so it's open for discussion. People have always said they don't care... whatever... they chew gum, too.

The lady was completely nutso, in my opinion. If I were you, I would follow up with a complaint to the management! She was clearly out of line!

When I come to visit you, I'll be the one chewing gum... just saying.