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.
Skin biopsy with nerve fiber stain : This determines the presence of small fiber neuropathy SFN. Urine testing : Urine is sampled and tested to determine whether the kidneys have been affected. Skin problems that occur with the condition may present as:.
Using a strong moisturizer can help prevent dry skin. If vasculitis occurs, the doctor may prescribe drugs to suppress the immune system, such as cyclophosphamide.
Studies have indicated that a viral or bacterial infection may trigger the disease, but that the underlying cause is primarily genetic and environmental. An environmental factor may change the immune system and cause immune problems later on, such as infection with hepatitis C or the Epstein-Barr virus.
However, this is still not understood. However, by successfully managing the dryness of the affected regions and treating any affected organs, a person with the condition can maintain a good quality of life.
Celiac disease causes the immune system to damage the small intestine. Below are a few of the prescription treatments available, but by no means is this an exhaustive list. Talk to your physician for more information. NSAIDs reduce the production of prostaglandins that promote inflammation and pain.
One class of NSAIDs, cox-2 inhibitors, is less likely to cause stomach problems but may have different potential side effects that should be discussed with your doctor. This suggests that the immune system, which normally functions to protect the body against cancers and infections, is reacting against its own tissue. Research suggests that genetic factors and possibly viral infections may predispose people to developing this condition.
Diagnosis depends on a combination of symptoms, physical examination, blood tests, and sometimes special studies.
Dry eyes and mouth may be early signs of the condition but require further investigation, because these symptoms can be caused by many other conditions or medications. Special tests may assess any decrease in tear or saliva production. Blood tests can determine the presence of antibodies immune system proteins that help destroy foreign invaders typical of the disease. Biopsies of saliva glands around the face or under the surface of the inner lip also may be used to make a diagnosis.
Treatment is designed to lessen the most bothersome symptoms. Dry eyes usually respond to artificial tears applied regularly during the day or to gels applied at night. Other measures, such as plugging or blocking tear ducts, can be used in more severe cases.
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.
See a dentist at least twice each year. Talk with the dentist about the use of fluoride treatments that can prevent cavities. The options include daily use of a prescription fluoride toothpaste, a fluoride rinse, or a professional fluoride treatment after a dental cleaning. For dry lips , petroleum jelly and lip balms can help. Blocked nasal passages and a dry nose increase your need to breathe through the mouth, which can make your dry mouth worse.
Saline nasal sprays can be helpful. Be sure to treat other causes of congestion, such as allergies and sinus infections, quickly. Dry skin usually improves when you use skin lotion regularly and throughout the day, especially after baths or showers.
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