Prevalence of Xerostomia in Patients with Chronic Hemodialysis in Babil City

Abstract

background: Xerostomia is as a subjective complaint of dry mouth that may result from deficient production of saliva. It may be caused by reduced salivary flow secondary to atrophy and fibrosis of the salivary glands, use of medications, restriction of fluid intake and old age. In patients undergoing hemodialysis, xerostomia is associated with difficulties in chewing, swallowing, tasting and speaking; increased risk of oral diseases. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was to find the prevalence of xerostomia in chronic hemodialysis patients in Babil- Hilla, and compare it with healthy controls. Materials and Methods: Forty three subjects were incorporated in this study, with end stage renal disease and undergoing hemodialysis , they were already diagnosed by a nephrologist specialists, all these patients are without any other systemic diseases. Healthy control group, forty control subjects with no signs and symptoms of any systemic disease. They were sex and age matched to hemodialysis patients.Results and Discussion: A total of 43 patients were registered in Merjan teaching hospital in Babil- Hilla. These patients on hemodialysis programs at the beginning of the study, from February to April, 2013. They were (20) males and (23) females and the age range (24- 69) years. Xerostomia was recorded in 69.767% (n=30) of all patients with hemodialysis. Our data involved mostly xerostomia was recorded in patients with hemodialysis, in these patients due to presence of xerostomia increased the poor oral hygiene. Dysgeusia and uremic fetor, bad odor and taste are caused not only by xerostomia but also by the presence of urease-splitting oral organisms, which metabolize urea (present in high levels in these patients) and thus elaborate ammonia. Patients with xerostomia are at increased risk of lesions to the mucosa, gingival, and tongue, as well as candidiasis, dental caries, periodontal disease and other bacterial and fungal infections. Many of these conditions either cause inflammation, or worsen the chronic inflammation that is frequently present in patients on hemodialysis, and consequently contribute to the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.Conclusions: Xerostomia remains a frustrating symptom for patients on hemodialysis, and further efforts should be made to identify effective treatments, restoration of the salivary function.