A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF SUGAR-FREE GUM WITH SUGAR-FREE CANDIES ON XEROSTOMIA IN THE PATIENTS UNDERGOING HEMODIALYSIS

Background: Xerostomia is one of the most significant and the most commonly observed symptoms in patients undergoing hemodialysis, the aim of this study was to compare the effect of sugar-free chewing gum with sugar-free candies in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Methods: This study was a quasi-experimental study. The patients were examined by xerostomia index (XI). In one intervention group, when thirsty patients used sugar-free chew gum for a week, and in another intervention group they used sugar-free candies for a week. The control group did not receive any intervention. SPSS software version 22 was used to analyze the data. Results: Based on the results in both groups, sugar-free chewing gum users and sugar free candies users, there was a significant difference between the xerostomia of the patients before and after intervention (P<0.05). Before the intervention, xersotomia of patients was not significantly different in the three groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: Results of this study, which showed the effects of sugar-free chewing gum and sugarless candy on the reduction of xerostomia in hemodialysis patients, so in a variety of patients whom are suffering from various xerostomia, including those undergoing radiotherapy and hemodialysis, these methods can be used. Keywords: Sugar Free Chewing Gum, Sugarless Candy, Xerostomia, Hemodialysis