20 janvier, 2006 14:10
Sjogren's causes dry mouth
Dear Dr. Gott: Several years ago, I was diagnosed with Sjogren's syndrome and emphysema.
I was hospitalized with pneumonia in March 2005, and I fell and broke my hip in May 2005. While in the hospital, I contracted a yeast infection in my mouth, according to my family doctor. It is now near the end of June, and I still have the coated teeth and tongue.
My family doctor, rheumatologist and ear, nose and throat doctor seem to believe that Sjogren's syndrome is the cause of my dry mouth and, therefore, causing the problem with my coated teeth and tongue.
The ENT doctor took a culture from my mouth when I was in the hospital and said I did not have a yeast infection but did not offer any advice or medication for the dry mouth, coated teeth and tongue.
Could the accident have caused the emphysema and Sjogren's syndrome to flare up, worsening the problem with dry mouth and coated teeth and tongue? If so, what can be done to help remedy the problem?
Before my accident I had a very active lifestyle, and now I have trouble eating and sleeping and am not as active as before the illness and accident. I have no appetite and have lost about 22 pounds.
If the dry-mouth problem could be corrected, I would feel so much better, and I think my appetite would also improve.
Dear Reader: Sjogren's syndrome, a disease caused by an autoimmune reaction (allergy to one's normal tissues), often causes dry eyes and mouth. Your accident probably has nothing to do with your current predicament.
Apparently your eyes are not affected, which is fortunate for you because that is a serious situation that could have harmed your vision.
In my limited experience, a variety of mouthwashes can help Sjogren's patients with a coated tongue and teeth. Ask your rheumatologist for advice about which product he or she would suggest you use.
I believe that your concern and discomfort could be alleviated, but I will leave the solution to the specialist.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Pulmonary Disease." Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092.
I wonder how many of these women have breast implants and haven't realized they are what's causing there health problems?
