Cooke C, Ahmedzai S, Mayberry J
Leicestershire Hospice, Leicester, UK.
Palliat Med. 1996 Oct;10(4):284-92. doi: 10.1177/026921639601000403.
Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a very common symptom amongst the terminally ill and can have profound negative effects on patients' quality of life. Yet, it is often considered trivial and therefore tends to be neglected and ignored. This review examines the pathophysiology, aetiology and methods of assessing xerostomia and its effects and discusses its management, with particular emphasis upon palliation. If xerostomia is managed sensitively and effectively, it is possible to improve patients' comfort and sense of well-being and so improve overall care.
口干症，即口腔干燥，是绝症患者中非常常见的症状，会对患者的生活质量产生深远的负面影响。然而，它常常被认为微不足道，因此往往被忽视和漠视。本综述探讨了口干症的病理生理学、病因、评估方法及其影响，并讨论了其管理，尤其着重于姑息治疗。如果对口干症进行敏感且有效的管理，就有可能提高患者的舒适度和幸福感，从而改善整体护理。
