? Sjogrens Syndrome

[Rite760]

Hi, I'd really your advice. My mouth is a mess. I've been going through a premature menopause and thyroid problems for the past year, but even before that I've been having other problems, the worst of which is my mouth. My mouth has been dry, gums sore, gingivitis, teeth breaking, teeth at the back near salivary glands dead and decaying, and I'm getting blood blisters on the inside of my lower lip when i eat. I also have dry eyes, dry cough, gastric reflux problems and dry skin. Now I know lack of oestrogen could cause dryness, but this seems extreme and my mouth is the worst. Could this be Sjogrens syndrome? I've heard it's dentists that can often identify with this before general physicians. Or is it still simply the menopause. Thank you.

[zmombomb]

The dentist can do a biopsy of your lip and the opthamologist can do tests also.  They can help where your PCP won't.

[Jerome Tsang, DDS]

I'm not sure if it is Sjogren's but the dry eyes and dry mouth are definitely symptoms of Sjogren's disease.  You may want to see your primary care physician for a proper diagnosis.  They'll probably do some saliva tests, a biopsy and some blood work.

You should also see your dentist for management of the dry mouth including saliva substitution, various cavity preventing toothpastes and mouthwashes, home care instructions such as carrying a bottle of water around to constantly sip, perhaps chewing on ice chips to help moisturize the gums as well as numb them a little prior to eating, etc., returning for frequent cleanings and checkups and generally being very aggressive with treatment to help with the symptoms.