XEROSTOMIA - A REVIEW

Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a very common symptom amongst the termina lly ill and can have profound negative effects on patients' quality of life. Yet, it is often considered trivial and therefore tends to be n eglected and ignored. This review examines the pathophysiology, aetiol ogy and methods of assessing xerostomia and its effects and discusses its management, with particular emphasis upon palliation. If xerostomi a is managed sensitively and effectively, it is possible to improve pa tients' comfort and sense of well-being and so improve overall care.