Prevalence of Xerostomia and Its Relationship with Underlying Diseases, Medication, and Nutrition: A Descriptive Observational Study

Abstract

Introduction.– We examined the prevalence of xerostomia and other mouthcomplaints in 223 geriatric outpatients in the Slotervaart Hospital in the Netherlands, and the possible relationship between xerostomia on the one hand andmedication, comorbidity and malnutrition on the other. Methods.– The prevalence of xerostomia and oral symptoms was measured in geriatric outpatients using a questionnaire and the GOHAI (Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index). Malnutrition was assessedwith theMNA (MiniNutritional Assessment).Medications and comorbidity were recorded. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine the possible causes of xerostomia. Results.– The prevalence of xerostomia and oral symptoms is 45% and 61%, respectively. Xerostomia is associated with the use of benzodiazepines (P0.015) andantidepressants (P0.031).No significant relationshipwas found between xerostomia andmalnutrition. Malnutrition, though,was frequentlyobserved.Geriatric specialists reported oral symptoms in only 4.5% of the patients. Conclusion.– Oral symptoms and xerostomia occur frequently, but are not often recognised. There is a significant correlation between the use of benzodiazepines and antidepressants and the risk of xerostomia. We did not find any relationship between xerostomia and underlying diseases or between xerostomia and malnutrition. We recommend that geriatric patients should be asked whether they have oral symptoms, such as xerostomia and other oral symptoms. Medication, particularly antidepressants and benzodiazepines, should be reviewed and a thorough oral examination should be performed.