A Study on the Correlation between Xerostomia, Yin Deficiency, and Heart Rate Variability in Halitosis Patients

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to analyze the correlation between the level of xerostomia and Yin deficiency as well as heart rate variability in patients with halitosis.Methods: A survey was conducted on 30 patients who visited the Department of Internal Medicine at Dongsin University Oriental Hospital from March 2021 to February 2022. A questionnaire regarding halitosis and xerostomia was administered using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores, and Yin deficiency was assessed using 10 specific items. Oral moisture was measured using the Oral Moisture Checking Device (Mucus) under unstimulated conditions, while heart rate variability was measured with the SA-6000 equipment.Results: A significant positive correlation was found between VAS scores for halitosis and xerostomia and Yin deficiency. However, there was no correlation between xerostomia and the Mucus scores. The low Mucus score group showed a significant negative correlation with LF values compared to the normal Mucus score group.Conclusion: Patients with halitosis who experience xerostomia are likely to be in a state of Yin deficiency.