Saliva composition and upper gastrointestinal symptoms in chronic kidney disease

ConclusionAltered saliva composition in patients with Stages 4 and 5 CKD may be associated with uraemic upper GI symptoms. In particular, lower saliva concentrations of bicarbonate are associated with dry mouth and retching. Higher saliva calcium levels are also related to a dry mouth whilst higher saliva sodium levels and a greater sodium/potassium ratio are associated with nausea. Further studies investigating strategies to improve uraemic symptoms via changes in saliva are required.
Source: Journal of Renal Care - Category: Urology & Nephrology Authors: Tags: Original Research Source Type: research