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.