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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.

Does anyone have dry eyes due to RA?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Florence S.C
October 1, 2017
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Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly confirmed that dry eyes are a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, with many pointing to Sjogren's syndrome as a... Read more

Members overwhelmingly confirmed that dry eyes are a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, with many pointing to Sjogren's syndrome as a frequently co-occurring condition that causes both dry eyes and dry mouth. Several members shared their go-to relief strategies, including artificial tears like Systane, Retaine, and Optive Omega, prescription treatments like Restasis, and surgical options such as punctal plugs, punctal cautery, and tarsorrhaphy for more severe cases. A recurring theme was the importance of working closely with both a rheumatologist and ophthalmologist, as dry eyes can also lead to complications like cataracts and vision changes that require regular monitoring and timely intervention.

A myRAteam Member

It is one of the many symptoms, also vision loss. Have regular check-ups. Check for cataracts. Many RA patients get cataracts. I got cataracts at 45 years old.

October 5, 2017
A myRAteam Member

Oh yes. Yes, indeed. Saline drops help (I keep them stashed everywhere, haha) and recently I started Restasis. While only on it just 7-10 days so far, it seems to really be helping. Make sure you tell your ophthalmologist about your symptoms. Best wishes, and lots of prayers!

October 1, 2017
A myRAteam Member

@A myRAteam Member @A myRAteam Member Cataracts too. I had perfect vision and in the last 2 years I’ve had a mess of issues and my rx has changed 5 times. My arms aren’t long enough anymore. Seems to get worse every few months. I haven’t had to have that surgery so far fingers crossed.

October 5, 2017
A myRAteam Member

@A myRAteam Member We did the punctal plugs in my upper and lower lids (both eyes) which helped some so the Ophthalmologist did punctal cautery to make it permanent. Still needed more so they also did tarsorrhaphy. It's made a difference. I also have glaucoma so I had an emergency Laser Iridotomy. No idea if the glaucoma is related to the Sjogren's or the RA, etc but they expect it is. Fingers crossed, my eyes are all set for a little while.

October 4, 2017
A myRAteam Member

I use Systane.

November 14, 2017

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