Dry mouth after radiotherapy

Thanks so much for the info. I am definitely going to order some as I am having a real issue with dry mouth. I have been using the Xylimelts at night which are great and Biotene dry mouth spray during the day but still finding more moisture in my mouth would really help. Your info. came just at the right time for me.

Lyn

I will def have a look into those-Thanks.

I have now had 2 acupuncture sessions to revive my saliva glands and, I can honestly say that the sessions have had a positive impact. I am eating perhaps 15% more than I could 2 weeks ago, even hubby noticed.

Not a huge fan of the fact they left me with needles in my face/back/legs for 25 minutes (instead of 10) as they forgot about me alone in a room !!! But, needs must I figure, so preparing to be stabbed again next week.

So pleased about the acupuncture. I'm a great fan as you know. 

Glad to hear you are eating better.

They look good! Will definitely try them, they are very pricey on Amazon though?

I assume you get the sample from swallow then buy for. Long term?

Get direct from Dr Heffs website. They have a discount code. They will probably send you samples if you ask first. 

Looking now, i am terrible for going straight to amazon!

Brilliant I swear it was the acupuncture that got me flowing back in August 2019;

Hazel x

There’s not much difference in price 

email them for free samples or I’ve got some spare if you want to pm me your address. Makes sense to see if they help. 

Hi Dani and Piya10

I am considering having acupuncture for my dry mouth and was wondering if you could give me a bit more info. as you have had good results.

I have had radiotherapy to both sides of my mouth over time and was wondering would the acupuncture still work as the salivary glands on both sides of my mouth have been ‘fried’?

I don’t know how many there are left to work with as a result.

Where do the acupuncture needles get put and how many treatments do you need to get optimum results?

Does it hurt when they are put in as I am a bit adverse to pain?

Do you know what the science is behind the use of acupuncture to stimulate salivary glands?

I’m willing to try most things but don’t want to waste money if it is a no go in my situation.

Thanks for any info. you have.

Lyn

Hi Sophie

It's called Auricular Acupuncture and it's a particular protocol for Xerostomia

I get one or two needles in my ears which I don't feel and one in each index finger which do hurt going in  (fingers are sensitive and the skin is tougher) but none of them hurt while they are in place for ten/fifteen  minutes. 

The first time I went my nose started running after the needles had been in for a few minutes and by the time I got back to the car after the session my mouth was full of saliva. Talking to other people who have had success they report some signs pretty early on. After six sessions my saliva was very much improved. I have been going monthly for a year because my my therapist does other needles for me but always adds the ear and finger ones. 

You don't have to "believe" it will work and I certainly didn't have any "faith" but having said that it doesn't help everybody.

All in all, It's worth a go.

Let us know how you get on.

PS we are not allowed to post pictures of body parts here so if you look at my blog there is a post on Acupuncture with some photos.