Optimal nocturnal humidification for xerostomia

Xerostomia is associated with a difficulty of maintaining oral hygeine and with symptoms of daytime oral discomfort and nocturnal sleep disturbance.

A pilot study was conducted to test the efficacy of a new method of delivering heated humidified air (37 degrees C, 100% water vapor saturated, at 20-25 L/min flow rate via specially designed nasal prongs) overnight for 2 weeks to 10 volunteers with Sjögrens Syndrome. Effectiveness was assessed by means of questionnaire, including the validated Xerostomia Inventory together with specific questions related to quality of sleep and oral comfort.

Nine subjects completed the study. Daytime xerostomia symptoms were significantly reduced in participants (p = .004). Night-time oral comfort was significantly improved (p = .005) as was early morning mouth comfort (p = .008). Frequency of dry cough was also significantly reduced over the study period (p < .001).

The body temperature, pressure saturated, delivery system was well tolerated and succeeded in alleviating the major oral and pharyngeal symptoms produced by xerostomia. These results have encouraged us to pursue further research in the application of this method of providing heated humidification.