Question

A patient who is at 10 weeks' gestation tells her nurse, "I'm making too much saliva, and I spit on people every time I talk! What's wrong with me?" How should the nurse respond?

A. "Let's schedule you for a doctor's appointment, because excessive salivation can signal a complication of pregnancy."
B. "That's called ptyalism, and it's usually caused by increased salt intake during the second trimester."
C. "You should avoid astringent mouthwashes and chewing gum."
D. "Excess salivation commonly occurs during the first trimester, although the cause is unknown."

Answer 1

Excessive salivation, or ptyalism, is a common symptom that occurs primarily during the first trimester of pregnancy. While the exact cause is unknown, hormonal changes are believed to play a role. The condition usually subsides as the pregnancy progresses.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should respond with option D: "Excess salivation commonly occurs during the first trimester, although the cause is unknown."

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect various body systems, including the salivary glands. Excess salivation, or ptyalism, is a common symptom that occurs primarily during the first trimester. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be related to hormonal fluctuations.

Example: The increased production of saliva during the first trimester may be bothersome for some pregnant women, but it is usually a temporary condition that subsides as the pregnancy progresses.