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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Chicago, IL

What is this? Never heard of it. Insurance company says that's what I am being treated for a long with my RA. This is news to me.

February 25, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members shared their experiences with dry eye syndrome, a common symptom many discovered was connected to RA or other autoimmune conditions... Read more

Members shared their experiences with dry eye syndrome, a common symptom many discovered was connected to RA or other autoimmune conditions like Sjogren's Syndrome, often learning about the link through insurance notices or routine eye exams rather than direct medical explanation. Several members described practical treatments that have helped them manage symptoms, including prescription medications like Restasis, Evoxac, and pilocarpine, preservative-free eye drops like Systane, punctal plugs to retain moisture, warm compresses with massage, and regular monitoring by ophthalmologists especially when taking Plaquenil. A recurring theme was the frustration of dealing with persistent grittiness and discomfort that affects daily activities like reading, the importance of twice-yearly eye exams to catch complications early, and the reassurance that while dry eyes can be debilitating, many treatment options exist and symptoms can improve or even reverse with proper care.

A myRAteam Member

I have plugs in my eyes now. It helps a little, but not much. For me anyways. When I went to the eye doc the other day to check for Iritis, he found that one of them had came out. I will have it put in again. Any little bit helps. They don't hurt to put them in and you cannot feel them when they are in. They just keep what fluid you have in your eyes stay in a little longer so they don't go right down the big duct. There are several ducts in your eyes, but the one big one we see in the inner corner is the one that they plug. I have had them in for about 2 years. I also have to put heat packs (rice in a sock) on my eyes 3 - 4 times a day and massage both of my upper lid and lower to try to break up the mucus that is used for lubrication.

March 4, 2016
A myRAteam Member

I was diagnosed with Sjogrens Syndrome at the same time I came down wth Ra (My 51st birthday, I really wanted a drill) but my Rheumatologist put me on salugen,(pilocarpine). Generic, much cheaper than Evozac(sp?). I still lost all my teeth and cant wear contacts, but my etes are much more comfortable, not as gritty. I pray it helps you.

March 3, 2016
A myRAteam Member

Hi Tabbs, So sorry you are having such a rough time. I have Sjorgen's also. Both eyes and mouth dryness. My Rheumy has me on Evoxac. Helps a lot. Have you tried altering you diet? Eating more fish or taking Omega 3?

February 25, 2016
A myRAteam Member

Also...if you are on Plaquinel....you need to have eye exams on a regular basis as it can cause eye damage....

February 25, 2016
A myRAteam Member

I also have dry eyes, when I wake up in the morning I can not open my eyes, I wss yold that it is because I dont drink enough fluids.

February 25, 2016

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