A multidimensional approach to sialorrhea management in elderly patients: Insights from the theory of unpleasant symptoms.

Sialorrhea, or excessive drooling, is a common yet underrecognized condition among elderly patients, particularly those with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. It can lead to complications, including aspiration pneumonia, skin irritation, and psychosocial distress, significantly impacting quality of life. Current nursing interventions remain fragmented, necessitating a comprehensive approach. This review applies the theory of unpleasant symptoms to identify symptom characteristics, influencing factors, and nursing interventions. A structured literature search identified 33 relevant studies, revealing that sialorrhea management involves pharmacological treatments, nonpharmacological strategies, and psychological and behavioral interventions. Additionally, emerging assistive technologies show promise but require further validation. The findings highlight the need for an integrated, evidence-based nursing framework that incorporates physiological, psychological, and environmental strategies to optimize symptom management and patient well-being. Future research should focus on standardizing nursing protocols and expanding caregiver education to enhance long-term care outcomes.