Red and Dry

[star12345]

My eyes every time I sleep at midnight It is red and dry, and it feels like there is sand in it.

Why is this happening?

[Natura]

Star...I have crusty eyes when I am sleeping, and trouble opening them in the middle of the night and morning. Went to eye dr. Told him about it. Told me it was allergies and yes, my eyes are red. Suggested I sleep with a towel on my pillow. It did seem to help, but I still have the difficulty of opening my eyes in the morning. Told him I have lupus. Asked if I was on any meds. I said no, so he dismissed my uncomfortableness....told me to get over the counter eye drops,which I did, it did make them better. Hope you find some answers.

[TM1970]

Star, I too have this and was referred urgently to ophthalmologist by Rheumy. They dx'd damaged tear film (sjorgens) and cataracts from long term steroid use. I use artificial tears to little effect but they prescribed hyloforte which i havent tried yet. Ive more tests to have but if you have a very dry mouth, push for referral to eye doc. best wishes, Terri

[Atibrat Moderator LUPUS SUPPORT]

Hi I also have dry eyes some time at the end of the day it feels like sand paper has been rubbed across them. Was sent to the eye doctor who said tear ducts not producing enough due to inflammation. I also have dry mouth with sores often.

What helps me the most is night time eye ointment. During the day if I can I put the ointment in close eyes immediately and lay down for a while. I also try to put in every night. It is thick and hard to see though but so soothing if you use as much as you can.

I would try to see eye doctor as soon as you can because steroid use can cause eye problems and other meds such as plaqinel.

Eye drops do not help me but the ointment has been very helpful.

[Bebe76]

Have you been evaluated for Sjogrens' syndrome? For me this also causes dry eyes, dry mouth, throat and sinus. You should see your optometrist, who can test for dry eye and recommend drops or ointments. Also I would metion it to your rheumatologist at your next visit, as he can evaluate you for Sjogrens from your symtoms but also from bloodwork.

[lupus-support1 Administrator]

It sounds as if you may have "dry eyes". There are those with lupus and especially those with Sjogren's Syndrome have this gritty feeling. It is very important you tell your doctor and even see an opthalmologist. A proportion of those with SLE also have SS.

It is important to ensure there is sufficient "tears" in your eyes which protect your eyes. You can get prescribed, or over the counter, "artificial tears" and to use these drops very regularly every day. They are harmless since they are saline and the same amount of salt which our bodies make.

Some people also have a dry mouth for various reasons such as Sjogren's or as a result of drugs. Chewing gum produces saliva; and sucking ice can also help. There are some other products which can help which your dentist can recommend. Those suffering with a dry mouth need to see their dentist regularly.

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Be well!

Ros