Acupuncture for patients in hospital-based home care suffering from xerostomia.
A total of 20 patients (17 cancer patients) in late-stage palliative care reporting 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 assessments used Visual Analog Scales (VAS). Acupuncture had a dramatic effect on xerostomia and, subsequently, on dysphagia and articulation, with subjects showing definite improvement after 5 treatments. Release of neuropeptides that stimulate the salivary glands and increased blood flow are possible explanations for the effects.
Rydholm
M
M
Hospital-Based Home Care Unit, Motala Hospital, Sweden.
Strang
P
P
D015670:Acupuncture Therapy; D005260:Female; D006699:Home Care Services; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications; D011788:Quality of Life; D013727:Terminal Care; D014987:Xerostomia / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*