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This disorder has made me feel completely hopeless. I'm 28 years old and the doctors were surprised I was diagnosed so early in my life. Anyway, amongst other symptoms, I suffer from dry mouth all the time. I'm on Pilocarpine (Salogen) and it seems to work fine for the first 2-3 hours. I'm so self-conscious about talking to others because I know my mouth is dry. It makes dating and close friendships impossible because I'm afraid of talking closely to others. In my mind I feel so defeated. Any tips from those who know how to navigate this? Any significantly helpful remedies for dry mouth?
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morelia100 Alexg
Posted
So sorry that you are going through this tough time. I felt hopeless when I was first diagnosed as well. But there is hope. There are some main routes you can choose to follow. Medicated treatment, all-natural including changes to your diet and life style, or a combination of both. I have chosen the all- natural route and with the help of a naturopath have found it quite helpful. My symptoms much alleviated over the course of three years. They tend to resurface when I stray from my diet for too long.
About dry mouth, I use an all natural mouth wash which you can probably find at any health store. You also will want to take extra good care of your teeth, and brush daily, and wait at least 30 minutes after eating before you brush. My dry mouth improved with changes in my diet, but I have never tried medication. I'm sure you will get some tips about using meds from some of the other members.
Best of luck! Hang in there--the situation usually improves with time.
kristyk Alexg
Posted
INCREASE FLUID INTAKE
MINIMIZE AIR CONDITIONING ENVIRONMENT.
USE A HUMIDIFIER AT BEDTIME.
SUCK ON SUGAR FREE CANDIES OR GUM.
AVOID MOUTHWASH THAT CONTAINS ALCOHOL OR WITCH HAZEL THAT ACTIVATE DRYNESS OR BURNING.
I JUST STARTED USING ORA CARE XYLIMELTS FOR DRY MOUTH AND THEY SEEM TO BE VERY HELPFUL SO FAR.
PEOPLE WITH DRY MOUTH CAN EASILY GET MOUTH INFECTIONS. TELL YOUR DOCTOR IF YOU HAVE WHITE PATCHED OR RED BURNING AREAS IN YOUR MOUTH.
I hope this helps.
Kristy k
Kablois Alexg
Posted
I am new to all this too but have found the Biotène moisturizing mouthwash to be very soothing, and of course always having water/a drink to sip. I suffer from another rare chronic illness that can be rather embarassing (interstitial cystitis) for many reasons and have found that people are generally kind and helpful and will not judge you. I know it's difficult when you are so aware of discomfort in one or more particular areas of the body but your perception is not the same as those who are with you. Sometimes it helps to remove the awkwardness if you let your guard down a little with others. Hope you feel better soon.
pam_87693 Alexg
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moglo pam_87693
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Many thanks, Mo
sally83545 Alexg
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once you get used to treating your dry mouth it will all seem very routine and not such a hassel. Remember bad breath comes from food trapped in your teeth. As often as possible use floss or a rubber tipped pick to clean food trapped in between and around your teeth. Don't forget the molars inside against your cheek. You'll be surprised how much food gets trapped there. Also, remember to gently brush your tounge. Consider yourself lucky to have been diagnosed early!
Good luck and feel better,
Sally
jordan58854 Alexg
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Kablois Alexg
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jordan58854 Alexg
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PJAngel Alexg
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I use hard candy or mint gum for dry mouth. I take no meds for anything so far.
For other things I have found other methods.
meds are not always good for these most of these problems. I find homeopathic meds help in most cases and eating the right foods and drink more water than normal keeping hydrated helps a lot.
When it comes to that someone you want to be close to use more mouthwash and the gum. Lol it really works.
Kablois PJAngel
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Could you tell us what candies / gum you suck on and what mouth wash you use? Many thanks
jennifer09136 Alexg
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PS For those who claim that even sugar-free mints may be bad for dental health, Sjogrens is an open invitation for poor dental health so you need to have amazing dental support anyway and pay super-close attention to your teeth. All that extra care will help your mouth, and in the face of a chronic illness sometimes there are trade-offs.
Best wishes to you.
jordan58854 jennifer09136
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jordan58854
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jennifer09136 jordan58854
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jordan58854 jennifer09136
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