Psychological stress induced xerostomia and hyposalivation: The case study in Indonesian female patient

Xerostomia is a subjective complaint of dry mouth associated with objectively measured hyposalivation. The Chronic xerostomia significantly increasing the oral diseases incident that may negatively affect quality of life. 66-years-old female patient came with chief complaint of dry mouth, burning mouth sensation, difficult to swallow, speech and halitosis for one year. Patient had a menopause history and admitted in stress condition. Intra-oral examination showed foamy unclear with thick and sticky saliva consistency. A minor single ulcer 2 mm in sinistra vestibulum with a necrotic and erythema area was found. Diagnose of xerostomia and hyposalivation detected by means of Unstimulated Saliva Flowrate (USF) examined using Sialometry (<0,1ml/min). Patient referred to Psychiatrist for further psychological examination by means of Depression Anxiety Stress (DAS) test. Patient reflected a hyposalivation condition (USF < 0.1ml/min, SF < .5ml/min). DAS test showed Depression Severe (23 > n=9), Anxiety Moderate (12 > n=7), Stress Moderate (18 > n=9). The patient was prescribed with Chlorine Dioxide Lemon Mint oral rinse as an antiseptic, anti-halitosis, anti-inflammation and saliva secretion stimulator. Moreover, the patient was instructed to drink water daily, use the mouthwash regularly, increase the oral hygiene and manage the stress condition. Initial evaluation of patients with xerostomia should include a detailed health history to facilitate early detection and identify underlying cause. Thus, it can relieve xerostomia that can improve the patient's quality of life.