Dry eyes

[babyluck]

Anyone have dry eyes as a first or early symptom? My eyes are very dry though only really first thing in the morning.

I'm getting heel and hip pain now too but the dry eyes was the first thing I noticed.

Got rheumatology appointment next week after gp checked and my ra factor was positive.

[hatshepsut]

Tell your rheumatologist about your eyes. It may be that you have sjorgrens syndrome, another autoimmune condition. I have this, I use lacrilube at night, and eye drops during the day. There are sometimes less obvious effects as well . It is very important that you get this checked out.

Hope the appointment goes well, it's a good idea to write down anything you want to ask and symptoms such as this. Good luck! M x

[allanah]

Yes, I get both the joint pain and dry mouth. Tell your Rheumy when u see him. Xgood luck on your appointment xx

[babyluck]

Thanks. I was reading that only 5% of people with rd get dry eyes so I was thinking it could be something else

[Hidden]

I think its more like 25% of people with RD get Sjogrens. It can affect eyes, nose, mouth, etc. Do bring it up at your appt. It can easily be managed. Good luck!

[magglen]

i also suffer from dry eyes. My GP gave me some drops but I have found the best thing is a herbal remedy called Euphrasia. It has to be diluted with boiled water. I have a small bottle with a dripper and carry this around with me everywhere. It soothes my eyes and is much better than the prescription stuff.. I bought Euphrasia in a health food shop. Do make sure to dilute it... the shop you buy it from should be able to advise you on the strength of the solution.

[sandraw21]

I also have dry eyes usually first thing in the morning (or in the night when I wake up). I have Liquifilm eye drops, they are in a box of individual plastic droppers. Much better for me as a bottle of eye drops would be really difficult to squeeze and a bottle can only be used for a month before a new one is needed even if the bottle is half full.

You need to see your dr and get eye drops on prescription - if you are entitled to free prescriptions !

[benjijen]

I use an eye gel. It's about £3 from the pharmacist. Haven't found anything for the dry mouth yet, I just keep water with me at all times.

[donnabrain]

there are lots of sprays available for the mouth

[babyluck]

Thanks everyone