Acupuncture for patients in hospital-based home care suffering from xerostomia

Citation
M. Rydholm et P. Strang, Acupuncture for patients in hospital-based home care suffering from xerostomia, J PALLIAT C, 15(4), 1999, pp. 20-23
Citations number
17
Categorie Soggetti
Public Health & Health Care Science","Health Care Sciences & Services
Journal title
JOURNAL OF PALLIATIVE CARE
ISSN journal
08258597 → ACNP
Volume
15
Issue
4
Year of publication
1999
Pages
20 - 23
Database
ISI
SICI code
0825-8597(199924)15:4<20:AFPIHH>2.0.ZU;2-U
Abstract
A total of 20 patients (17 cancer patients) in late-stage palliative care r eporting dryness of mouth and associated problems were treated for 5 weeks with 10 acupuncture treatments. Ten patients were also evaluated for speech problems (articulation) and dysphagia caused by xerostomia. Subjective ass essments used Visual Analog Scales (VAS). Acupuncture had a dramatic effect on xerostomia and, subsequently, on dysphagia and articulation, with subje cts showing definite improvement after 5 treatments. Release of neuropeptid es that stimulate the salivary glands and increased blood flow are possible explanations for the effects.