Xerostomia and hyposalivation - Causes, consequences and treatment in the elderly

Citation
To. Narhi et al., Xerostomia and hyposalivation - Causes, consequences and treatment in the elderly, DRUG AGING, 15(2), 1999, pp. 103-116
Citations number
152
Categorie Soggetti
Pharmacology,"Pharmacology & Toxicology
Journal title
DRUGS & AGING
ISSN journal
1170229X → ACNP
Volume
15
Issue
2
Year of publication
1999
Pages
103 - 116
Database
ISI
SICI code
1170-229X(199908)15:2<103:XAH-CC>2.0.ZU;2-I
Abstract
Xerostomia and salivary gland hypofunction (SGH) are prevalent in elderly p opulations, causing much discomfort and even difficulties in eating. SGH al so increases the occurrence and severity of oral diseases and makes the pat ient susceptible to candidiasis. The principal causes of SGH and xerostomia are systemic diseases and drugs used daily The diagnosis of SGH and xerost omia is based on simple methods, of which measuring both unstimulated and s timulated salivary flow rate is the most important. Treatment calls for pro per management of underlying disease, avoidance of all unnecessary medicati ons, and topical remedies such as artificial saliva substitutes. However, g ood hydration is essential in the elderly with SGH and xerostomia, and wate r is the drink of choice. In extremely difficult cases, for instance in pat ients receiving radiotherapy for cancer of the head and neck regions, paras ympathomimetic drugs may be administered if no contraindications exist.