Causes for simultaneous dry eye and mouth conditions in individuals.
Dry eye and dry mouth are common conditions that can cause discomfort and affect quality of life. While they may seem unrelated, these conditions can often be interconnected, especially when they are symptoms of an underlying health condition.
The most common underlying health condition causing both dry eye and dry mouth simultaneously is Sjögren's syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disorder. This condition affects the moisture-producing glands, especially the lacrimal (tear) and salivary glands, leading to hallmark symptoms of dry eyes, dry mouth, and often fatigue [1][2][3][4]. Sjögren’s syndrome can occur alone (primary) or alongside other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus (secondary) [1][3][5].
Other autoimmune diseases that can cause dry eyes and sometimes dry mouth include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Known mainly for joint inflammation but can also affect tear glands and cause dry eye [3][5].
- Lupus: A systemic autoimmune condition that can cause eye inflammation and dryness [3][5].
- Scleroderma: Can induce tear gland damage and dry eyes [5].
In addition to autoimmune diseases, certain systemic conditions can also lead to dry eye and dry mouth. For instance, thyroid disorders (both hypo- and hyperthyroidism) and diabetes may cause these symptoms through inflammation, nerve damage, or hormonal imbalances [5].
Moreover, chronic diarrhea caused by certain intestinal and metabolic conditions, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), can lead to persistent dehydration, potentially causing dry eye and dry mouth [6].
Allergies and certain medications like anticholinergics, antihistamines, chemotherapy, diuretics can dry out the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth [7].
Sleeping conditions such as dry environment, sleeping with mouth or eyes open, sleep apnea, and lagophthalmos can also cause dry eye and dry mouth [8].
If dry eye and dry mouth are symptoms of another condition, treating the underlying cause is necessary along with treating the symptoms themselves. If symptoms do not resolve with at-home treatment, it is advisable to contact a doctor to check for underlying health conditions [9].
Menopause can cause dry eye and dry mouth due to hormonal changes, and kidney problems, including those treated with hemodialysis, can cause symptoms relating to moisture production and retention, including dry eye and dry mouth [10].
In conclusion, understanding the causes of dry eye and dry mouth is essential for effective treatment. While maintaining proper hydration and using lubricating eye drops can help manage these conditions, addressing any underlying health conditions is crucial for long-term relief. If you are experiencing persistent dry eye and dry mouth, consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
References: [1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Sjögren's syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sjogrens-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20353541 [2] National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2021). Sjögren's syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/sjogrens-syndrome [3] American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). Dry eye. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/dry-eye-overview [4] American College of Rheumatology. (2021). Sjögren's syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Sjogrens-Syndrome [5] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Sjögren's syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/skin-conditions/sjogrens-syndrome [6] American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). Dry mouth. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/dry-mouth-overview [7] American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. (2021). Dry mouth. Retrieved from https://www.entnet.org/content/dry-mouth [8] National Sleep Foundation. (2021). Dry mouth. Retrieved from https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-topics/dry-mouth [9] American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). When to see a doctor for dry eye. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/when-to-see-a-doctor-for-dry-eye [10] National Institute on Aging. (2021). Menopause and dry eye. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/menopause-and-dry-eye [11] National Kidney Foundation. (2021). Dry mouth. Retrieved from https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/drymouth
- Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder, often causes both dry eye and dry mouth due to its effect on moisture-producing glands.
- Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can also lead to dry eyes and dry mouth as symptoms.
- Thyroid disorders, whether hypo- or hyperthyroidism, can potentially cause dry eye and dry mouth through inflammation, nerve damage, or hormonal imbalances.
- Chronic diarrhea related to intestinal and metabolic conditions, such as irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), can result in persistent dehydration, causing dry eye and dry mouth.
- Allergies and certain medications like anticholinergics, antihistamines, chemotherapy, diuretics, and sleeping aids can dry out mucous membranes, leading to dry eyes and mouth.
- Sleeping conditions such as sleep apnea, lagophthalmos, sleeping with the mouth open, and a dry environment can cause dry eye and dry mouth.
- If dry eye and dry mouth are indicators of another medical condition, it is crucial to address the underlying cause in conjunction with treating the symptoms themselves.
- Menopause, due to hormonal changes, and kidney problems, including those treated with hemodialysis, can cause symptoms related to moisture production and retention, including dry eye and dry mouth.
- In some cases, respiratory conditions, digestive health issues, and neurological disorders may present with dry eye and dry mouth as symptoms.
- Skin conditions can also affect eye health and may contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Ent (ear, nose, and throat) specialists may be consulted to investigate and treat dry eye and dry mouth caused by issues within these areas.
- Aging, as well as certain mental health conditions and men's health issues, can potentially contribute to the development of dry eye and dry mouth.
- Therapies and treatments for autoimmune disorders, chronic diseases, and certain medications can often improve dry eye and dry mouth symptoms.
- Regular skin care and hydration can help manage dry mouth and dry eye, but addressing any underlying health conditions is necessary for long-term relief.
- Embracing a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, fitness and exercise, sexual health education, and weight management, can help maintain overall eye health.
- Workplace wellness programs and measures can help alleviate the symptoms of dry eye and dry mouth in work environments, particularly those with air conditioning, screens, or extreme lighting conditions.
- Seeking advice from healthcare professionals or medical organizations, such as Medicare, for guidelines on treating dry eye and dry mouth, and exploring alternatives like CBD, can aid in the management and resolution of these conditions.
