| Theme | Oral Diseases and Oral Care in Dialysis Patients | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Taste disturbance in hemodialysis patients | |
| Publish Date | 2011/06 | |
| Author | Kaoru Tabei | Division of Nephrology, First Integrated Medicine, Saitama Medical Center, Jichi Medical University |
| [ Summary ] | Taste disorders (dysgeusia) are frequently encountered in hemodialysis patients. The frequency is thought to be about 70 %. To provide appropriate diet therapy for hemodialysis patients, taste tests should be considered. These taste disturbances were thought to be due to zinc deficiencies since the 1980s. However, many recent studies deny this is so. The cause of dysgeusia has not been clarified, however, inappropriate hemodialysis, adverse effects from drugs, as well as neurological disorders are known to lead to taste disorders in hemodialysis patients. In cases involving taste disturbances, improvements in dialysis efficacy, such as increased blood flow, the use of larger dialyzers, and longer dialysis sessions is recommended. Changing to more appropriate drugs to reduce adverse side effects, which may lead to dysgeusia as well as oral care are also recommended. |
|