Eye drops that reduce inflammation in the glands around the eyes, such as cyclosporine Restasis , may be used to increase tear production. Drinking water, chewing gum, or using saliva substitutes may relieve dry mouth.
Some patients benefit from using prescription medications that stimulate saliva flow, such as pilocarpine Salagen or cevimuline Evoxac. If patients develop yeast infections, anti-fungal therapies may be used. Humidifiers and nasal saline irrigation may improve nasal dryness. Medications that reduce gastric acid such as proton-pump inhibitors and H2 blockers may lessen symptoms of acid reflux.
Treatments may help relieve some of the dryness, but usually some dryness persists. Patients with dry eyes should see an ophthalmologist eye doctor regularly for signs of damage to the cornea. Patients with excessive redness and pain in the eyes should be evaluated for infections. Patients should know that they face an increased risk for infections in and around the eyes and an increased risk for dental problems due to the long-term decrease in tears and saliva.
Rarely, patients may have complications related to inflammation in other body systems, including:. Rheumatologists are specialists in musculoskeletal disorders and, therefore, are more likely to make a proper diagnosis.
They also can advise patients about the best treatment options available. When a diagnosis is made, many patients must focus a great deal of attention dealing with dry eyes and dry mouth, but these symptoms tend to subside with time.
Any pain or redness in the eyes should be evaluated promptly, as this may signal an infection. To reduce risk for cavities and other dental problems, patients must pay close attention to proper oral hygiene and regular dental care. Patients should see their physician regularly for general health screening. Trouble sleeping. Poor concentration and memory problems. Numbness, tingling, and weakness, especially in your arms and legs.
Shortness of breath or trouble breathing. What causes it? Is there a test? Your doctor may also send you for: Eye tests. Salivary gland tests. Blood and other laboratory tests. How is it treated? Prevent complications. Who treats it? Other specialists who may be involved in your care include: Dentists, who care for your gums and teeth. Mental health professionals, who can help people cope with difficulties in the home and workplace that may result from their medical conditions.
Nephrologists, who treat kidney disease problems. Neurologists, who specialize in treating diseases of the nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. Ophthalmologists, who specialize in the care of the eyes.
Otolaryngologists, who specialize in caring for the ears, nose, and throat. Primary care doctors, such as family physicians or internal medicine specialists, who coordinate care between the different health care providers and treat other problems as they arise.
Pulmonologists, who specialize in treating diseases of the lungs. Living With It. Caring for your eyes. Protect your eyes from drafts, breezes, and smoky rooms. Have your glasses fitted with shields on the sides, or use wraparound glasses. Do not use eye drops that irritate your eyes. If one brand or prescription bothers you, try another.
Be sure to look for eye drops that do not contain preservatives if you regularly use them four or more times a day. Put humidifiers in the rooms where you spend the most time, including the bedroom.
If you get blepharitis eyelid inflammation , use warm compresses on your eyes. You may also gently wash the eyelids with watered down baby shampoo. Caring for your mouth. Brush and floss your teeth regularly. There are fluoride toothpastes designed for people with dry mouths. It affects around 0.
Other symptoms can include :. Smoking, air travel, overhead fans, and air-conditioned or windy environments can exacerbate symptoms. Alcohol should be avoided , however. People may also wish to avoid foods that irritate the mouth, such as spicy or acidic items. To make food easier to swallow :.
The best option is to choose a balanced diet that is high in fresh fruit and vegetables and low in saturated fats and sugar. Some foods are believed to trigger an inflammatory reaction , such as artificial sweeteners.
These may be best avoided. Keeping a food diary may help pinpoint any specific foods that may cause a reaction or worsen symptoms. Treatment options include :. The patient may be seeing various health professionals, perhaps a dentist for dry mouth and tooth decay, a gynecologist for vaginal dryness, and an ophthalmologist for dry eyes, a pulmonologist for shortness of breath and chronic cough.
The criteria for a definitive diagnosis to be included in a clinical trial include:. A doctor may order some further tests, including:. This frequently causes confusion in initial diagnosis. Ophthalmological tests : An ophthalmologist can carry out the Rose Bengal, Lissamine green, and Schirmer eye tests. Dyes and blotting paper are used to expose dry areas on the eye.
Salivary flow rate : The doctor measures the weight of saliva produced in a cup over 5 minutes. Sialogram : A dye is injected into the parotid glands. This practice is increasingly being used less. Salivary scintigraphy : A radioactive isotope is injected and tracked with imaging to measure salivary gland function.
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