Effect of Sugar Free Gum Chewing on Thirst and Interdialytic Weight Gain among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis

Mohamed, Mohamed Bakry; Abdullah, Wafaa H.; Ameen, Omnia; Masry, Samah E.

doi:10.21608/menj.2023.315264

Effect of Sugar Free Gum Chewing on Thirst and Interdialytic Weight Gain among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ B.S.C. Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University

² Professor of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University

³ Assistant Professor of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University

⁴ Assistant Professor of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University

10.21608/menj.2023.315264

Abstract

Abstract: Thirst is a frustrating symptom for patients on hemodialysis; mechanisms that contribute to its development include low saliva flow. An increased intake of fluids secondary to thirst in patients on hemodialysis will result in excessive interdialytic weigh gain. Increased mastication in the form of gum chewing can increase saliva flow rates, decrease thirst and interdialytic weight. Purpose: to examine the effect of sugar free gum chewing on thirst and interdialytic weight gain (IWG) among patients undergoing hemodialysis. Design: A quasi-experimental design was utilized. Setting: Hemodialysis unit in Menouf general hospital, Egypt. Sampling: Consecutive sample of 90 adult patients of both genders were divided alternatively into three equal groups 30 patients in each (study group 1, study group 2 and control group). Instruments: (1) Structured Interview questionnaire, (2) Dialysis Thirst Inventory and (3) Bio-physiological measurements. Results: There was a significant improvement in thirst sensation and significant decrease in interdialytic weight among studied groups than control group. Conclusions: Using of gum chewing alleviate thirst sensation and significantly decreases interdialytic weight gain among patients undergoing hemodialysis. Recommendations: Gum chewing should be encouraged and added to the management protocol for patients undergoing hemodialysis for positive effect on, alleviate thirst sensation, help compliance to fluid restriction, control of interdialytic weight gain and improve the quality of life moreover; further research studies using a larger sample and different geographical areas.

Keywords