News
Saliva Spills - Speech Pathology Week
Aug 20, 2017
Saliva control issues can sometimes cause embarrassment – and are a common complaint addressed in the Parkinson’s Disease Day Rehabilitation Program at Greenslopes Private Hospital.
Many patients report two main problems: having either a very dry mouth or too much saliva, which can lead to drooling.
Greenslopes Private Hospital speech pathologist Lisa De Macedo said there are a number of treatment options available, but for many people with Parkinson’s disease, implementing some simple tips and strategies can significantly improve saliva management issues.
“People with Parkinson’s Disease are usually not producing any more saliva than a person without Parkinson’s Disease – their natural tendency to swallow may be reduced, so the saliva pools and can overflow from their mouth,” said Ms De Macedo.
“Those who have dry mouths should aim to sip fluid more frequently and can try sugar-free lozenges or gum to improve saliva flow. Pharmacy products like oral lubricant gels can also help ease the symptoms.”
At the same time it can help to reduce your intake of caffeine, alcohol, sugar and fizzy drinks which can have a drying effect.
“Sometimes people may feel like they have a dry mouth but simultaneously experience drooling as well. In this case, you can implement strategies to make sure you swallow the saliva before it spills out. We often use external queuing like prompt cards to encourage people to swallow more frequently,” said Ms De Macedo.
Sipping water regularly also helps to increase the amount of saliva being swallowed, which in turn prevents drooling.
Other factors like clothing choices can play a role in avoiding embarrassment caused by unintentional spillage. Materials such as quick-dry fabrics, patterned fabrics and scarves can help disguise any wet areas.
Ms De Macedo said a multidisciplinary approach is important in assisting people with Parkinson’s Disease. For example, physiotherapists can help with posture to prevent saliva spillage, doctors and pharmacists can review medications, while dentists can investigate overall oral health.
Greenslopes Private Hospital’s dedicated Parkinson’s Disease Day Rehabilitation program includes a speech pathologist, occupational therapist, exercise physiologist, nurse, and physiotherapist – all in the one location.
There are currently no waiting lists and patients with private health insurance are usually covered by their fund.
For more details about the program please click here or contact 07 3394 7727 Monday – Friday.