<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

I have celiac disease and an extremely dry mouth.  I thought this was
Sjogren's Disease (another autoimmune disease), but was under the
mistaken impression that it was untreatable so I never mentioned it to
a doctor. However, when I then got arthritis, I went to the doctor. It
was discovered that I was on the verge of damaging my corneas from the
lack of moisture in my eyes due to the Sjogren's and I needed to use
eye drops to prevent this. I also discovered the disease is just not
dry eyes and mouth, but can lead to extraglandular involvement
resulting in other problems such as arthritis and low energy. While it
is true that the symptoms of dry eyes cannot be treated, some people
can take medication to get rid of the dry mouth, but more importantly
you need to take immunosuppressants if you have extraglandular
involvement. If you have concerns about Sjogren's Disease and live
close to D.C., there is a diagnostic study at NIH. Call Rose Ann Leaken
at 301-435-8528 for more information. There is no charge and you get
blood work, eye and dental exams and yes, there is a biopsy with this
one too. It was beneficial for me to take part in the study (although
not fun) because I learned about the damage to my corneas and the
necessity of using eye drops.

Meredith

*Support summarization of posts, reply to the SENDER not the Celiac List*