Dry Eyes or Mouth

The diagnosis starts with a comprehensive medical history and physical examination. Your doctor may order blood tests to check for signs of autoimmunity. Special tests to measure tear production, called Schirmer's test, and saliva flow may also be performed. In some cases, a small sample of tissue (biopsy) may be taken from the salivary glands.

Blood tests can reveal the presence of certain autoantibodies, which are produced by the immune system in autoimmune diseases. These tests can provide valuable information about the underlying cause of dry eyes or mouth.

'Red flag' symptoms that might accompany dry eyes or mouth and indicate a serious immune system disorder include severe pain or redness in the eyes, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, recurrent fevers, or persistent fatigue. If you're experiencing these symptoms along with dry eyes or mouth, it's important to seek medical attention.

If you're experiencing dry eyes or mouth, you should start by consulting your primary care doctor. Depending on your symptoms and the suspected underlying cause, you may be referred to a specialist such as a rheumatologist (autoimmune specialist) or an ophthalmologist (eye specialist).

Yes, certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking or low fluid intake, can contribute to dry eyes or mouth. Certain environmental conditions like dry or windy climates can also worsen these symptoms.

Quitting smoking, maintaining adequate hydration, and using a humidifier in dry environments can help manage dry eyes or mouth. Avoiding activities that might strain your eyes, like prolonged screen time, can also be beneficial.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. This might involve artificial tears or saliva substitutes, medications to stimulate tear or saliva production, or immunosuppressive drugs to manage autoimmune conditions. Good oral hygiene is also important in managing dry mouth to prevent dental problems.

While the underlying immune system disorder may not always be curable, the associated dry eyes or mouth can often be effectively managed with the right treatment. It's vital to work closely with your healthcare team to manage your symptoms and maintain your quality of life.

Yes, dry eyes or mouth are quite common symptoms in several immune system disorders. They may occur as the immune system mistakenly targets the glands producing tears or saliva.