A RandomisEd controLled trIal of chEwing gum to relieVE thirst in Chronic Heart Failure (RELIEVE-CHF)

Sabine M. Allida, Sajad Shehab, Sally C. Inglis, Patricia M. Davidson, Christopher S. Hayward, Phillip J. Newton

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

8 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: Thirst is a common and troublesome symptom of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). To date, there are no interventions to help alleviate thirst in this cohort. Chewing gum is a novel intervention, which has been tested in people undergoing haemodialysis, also prescribed with a fluid restricted therapy. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of chewing gum on the level of thirst in the short-term (average of 24 hours each day for 4 days) and in the longer-term (Days 7, 14 and 28) individuals with CHF. Methods: Seventy-one (71) individuals with CHF on oral loop diuretics were randomised to chewing gum (n=36) or control (n=35) for 2 weeks. Both groups were assessed for their level of thirst at Days 1–4, 7, 14 and 28. Results: Significant improvements in the level of thirst of those who received chewing gum compared to the control group at Day 4 (p=0.04) and Day 14 (p=0.02) were observed. Conclusion: Chewing gum provided relief from thirst in the short-term and in the longer term. This trial provides important information to inform future clinical trials on ways to relieve thirst.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)516-524
Number of pages9
JournalHeart , Lung and Circulation
Volume30
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

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