OTC Relief for Dry Eyes and Mouth

Dry mucous membranes caused by Sjögren’s syndrome elicits descriptions from patients like, “food tastes like paper” and “eyes feel gritty.” Sjögren’s syndrome can occur by itself or along with autoimmune conditions, such as lupus or RA. Just as joints and connective tissues can be attacked as part of the autoimmune condition, the moisture-producing glands also can be attacked.

The prescription medications available to treat dry eyes and dry mouth are listed in the chart. The oral drugs listed here work internally to help your body produce more moisture in the mouth. The dry-eye treatments add moisture to the eye or suppress eye inflammation. A surgical procedure to block the tear ducts (punctal occlusion) is an option for severe cases of dry eyes. Other prescription medications, such as the DMARD hydroxychloroquine sulfate (Plaquenil), may be used to treat other manifestations.

Over-the-counter treatments are available, too. Sugar-free chewing gum and candies, mouth sprays and rinses can help moisten the mouth and lessen discomfort. Available in sprays, liquids and pretreated swabs, artificial saliva products are sold under a number of brand names, including Glandosane, Moi-Stir, MouthKote, Optimoist, Oralube, Salivart and Xero-Lube. These products should be applied directly to the tongue, gums and roof of the mouth, according to package directions. Although these products do not stimulate saliva production, they do provide temporary moisture and can be reapplied as needed.

Eye drops can be used as needed (up to four times per day if bottles contain preservatives) and are available without prescription. Artificial tears (hydroxypropyl cellulose drops) are also sold under a number of brand names, including Artificial Tears, Bion Tears, Gonak, Isopto Tears, Lacril, Nature’s Tears and Ocucoat. To use the tears, place one drop in each lower eyelid and then close eyes one or two minutes, so tears can absorb. As with artificial salivas, the benefits of artificial tears are temporary. They can be applied three or four times daily. Be sure to check specific directions on the product’s packaging.

Other measures you can take on your own include sipping water throughout the day, avoiding smoking and caffeine and talking with your doctor about any medications you may be taking that could be drying your mucous membranes.

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