Quantification of salivation, nasal secretion and tearing in man

The purpose of this study has been to establish a battery of tests of autonomic functions: Quantification of submandibular/sublingual salivation, nasal secretion and tearing on both sides. The tests were performed in a control group of 20 healthy students. We used a parasympathomimetic drug, pilocarpine 0.1 mg/kg body weight, to stimulate the different secretory functions. Saliva was collected with a pair of dentistry spiral suctions. Tearing was assessed with Schirmer's test tapes. Nasal secretion was quantified using Schirmer's test tapes, too. Nasal secretion and salivation on average was fairly symmetrical, whereas there was some asymmetry in tearing (which may be artificial). In single individuals, there may be considerable asymmetry in salivation as well. This test battery will be used in the study of possible autonomic dysfunctions in patients with unilateral headache.