Radiation-induced xerostomia: how dry is your patient?
Most patients receiving radiation therapy to the head and neck region will experience some type of oral complication. Xerostomia is one of the most severe symptoms that patients experience and may become a lifelong problem. This article reviews normal salivary function, effects of radiation therapy on oral mucosa, impact of xerostomia on quality of life, and current treatment strategies used to manage this debilitating side effect. Oncology nurses can have a significant impact on patient outcomes through diligent assessment and ongoing education regarding symptom management.
Bruce
Susan D
SD
Bruce001@mc.duke.edu
D015670:Acupuncture Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D006801:Humans; D018721:Muscarinic Agonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000379:methods; D009910:Oral Hygiene / Q000379:methods; D010862:Pilocarpine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011788:Quality of Life; D011812:Quinuclidines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D012472:Salivation / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology / Q000528:radiation effects; D013876:Thiophenes; D014987:Xerostomia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000451:nursing* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology
D018721:Muscarinic Agonists; D011812:Quinuclidines; D013876:Thiophenes; D010862:Pilocarpine; C059240:cevimeline