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What is the Connection Between Dry Mouth and Fatigue?
Dry mouth and fatigue may be connected when accompanied by other symptoms pertaining to certain illnesses, or when they come as side effects of a specific medication. Sjögren's Syndrome (SS) is one example of a disease that is known to cause both dry mouth and fatigue, along with the drying of the eyes and airways. Many medications used to treat other conditions also result in both symptoms, although they do not show up in all patients.
SS is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects women and is characterized by extreme dry mouth, dry eyes, dry airways, and drying of other mucosal passages. Debilitating fatigue is also a frequent complaint. It is relatively common and affects more people than any other rheumatoid-related illness. Medications may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms.
Some prescription drugs may also cause these symptoms and can include a wide variety of medications. Symptoms are generally mild and may decrease as the body becomes adjusted to the new prescription. Dosages of the drug may also be altered if either of these symptoms, or any others, become too severe.
There are various treatments available for dry mouth and fatigue. If caused by an illness, treating the underlying illness is the first step. Sometimes symptoms are not entirely alleviated and additional therapies may be needed. Dry mouth can be treated by using medications, while fatigue may also require drugs or various vitamins or supplements which are proven to enhance energy levels. Dosages may need to be altered until the desired results are achieved.
Natural remedies for these symptoms have also proven beneficial for many patients. Dry mouth may be improved by ensuring plenty of fluids are consumed, sucking on hard candy or chewing gum, and avoiding foods that cause a feeling of dryness in the mouth, such as crackers or salty chips. Fatigue can be treated by staying hydrated, eating plenty of complex carbohydrates and protein, exercise, and getting adequate sleep each night.
In most cases, these symptoms can be successfully treated, especially when caused by the use of medication. An alternative treatment method may be used, or if the medication is temporary the symptoms should go away once the drug has been stopped. If either symptom is present with no known cause or if they become debilitating, a doctor should be notified to rule out any underlying condition or to explore treatment options.
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![Symptoms such as dry mouth and fatigue might be caused by prescription medications.]()
By: WavebreakmediaMicroSymptoms such as dry mouth and fatigue might be caused by prescription medications. -
![Some people with dry mouth and fatigue may benefit from taking alternative medications.]()
By: jedi-masterSome people with dry mouth and fatigue may benefit from taking alternative medications. -
![Some medicines used to treat schizophrenia may cause dry mouth.]()
By: sebraSome medicines used to treat schizophrenia may cause dry mouth. -
![Dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay.]()
By: Igor GromoffDry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay. -
![Using an inhaler may cause dry mouth as a side effect.]()
By: perfectmatchUsing an inhaler may cause dry mouth as a side effect. -
![Fatigue can be treated by staying hydrated.]()
By: beerfanFatigue can be treated by staying hydrated. -
![Drinking too many caffeinated beverages in an attempt to fight fatigue can cause dry mouth.]()
By: HalfpointDrinking too many caffeinated beverages in an attempt to fight fatigue can cause dry mouth. -
![Sjogren's Syndrome is known to cause dry mouth as well as dry eyes.]()
By: MartinanSjogren's Syndrome is known to cause dry mouth as well as dry eyes. -
![Dry mouth can be treated by drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding foods that cause a feeling of dryness in the mouth.]()
By: JackFDry mouth can be treated by drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding foods that cause a feeling of dryness in the mouth.
Discussion Comments
@turquoise-- Has Sjögren's Syndrome been ruled out?
Sjögren's Syndrome will usually cause antibodies to show up in blood tests. But sometimes tear and saliva tests can be necessary. You might want to return for another blood test if the symptoms continue and ask for salivary testing as well next time.
Also, has she had blood glucose tests done to check for metabolic syndromes? I'm asking because dry mouth, lack of appetite and fatigue are symptoms of diabetes. Excessive drinking and urination, losing weight, feeling tired and getting hungry frequently do point in that direction. Please see another doctor if your daughter has these symptoms.
My daughter has been experiencing dry mouth, lack of appetite, dizziness and fatigue for the past month.
She had blood tests done and everything looks normal but her symptoms continue. What are some other dry mouth and lack of energy causes?
I had the flu a few weeks ago and fever because of it. I know flu causes fatigue but I think it also causes dry mouth. I had terrible dry mouth and dry throat until I recovered. Chamomile tea with honey really helped though.
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