Managing Dryness with Lupus (SLE)

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), commonly referred to as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects multiple organs and tissues in the body. One of the lesser-discussed but highly uncomfortable symptoms associated with lupus is dryness. This can manifest in various parts of the body, including the skin, eyes, mouth, and even internal organs. Dryness can significantly impact the quality of life for lupus patients, but with the right management strategies, these symptoms can be alleviated. In this post, we’ll explore how dryness affects lupus patients and what you can do to manage it.

I have written loads of Lupus-related posts and I realized I hadn’t covered one of the more annoying symptoms of lupus – dryness. So today we’re going over all things dryness. If you haven’t checked out the other Lupus-related posts don’t worry I’ll link them below for you to check out!

How Lupus Causes Dryness

Lupus is an autoimmune condition, meaning that the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. This inflammatory process can disrupt the body’s ability to produce and maintain moisture, leading to issues like dry skin, eyes, mouth, and even vaginal dryness in women.

Additionally, medications used to manage lupus symptoms, such as corticosteroids and diuretics, can contribute to dryness by altering the body’s fluid balance.

Here are the most common types of dryness lupus patients may experience:

Dry Skin: One of the most common complaints from lupus patients is dry, irritated skin. Lupus can cause rashes, lesions, and other skin-related symptoms, but chronic dryness can make these symptoms even worse. Symptoms of dry skin look like:

• Rough, flaky skin
• Cracked or peeling skin
• Itching and irritation
• Rashes that become more painful or pronounced with dryness

Tips for Managing Dry Skin:

• Use Gentle Moisturizers: Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizers that can lock in moisture without irritating your skin. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin.
• Take Short, Lukewarm Showers: Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, worsening dryness. Stick to lukewarm water to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils.
• Avoid Harsh Soaps: Use gentle, moisturizing cleansers that don’t contain strong chemicals or fragrances, as they can further dry out the skin.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps maintain your skin’s moisture levels from the inside out.
• Use a Humidifier: Especially during winter, when indoor air is dry, a humidifier can help maintain moisture levels in your home and prevent your skin from drying out.

Dry Eyes: Dry eyes are a common issue for lupus patients, especially for those who also suffer from Sjögren’s syndrome, another autoimmune condition that often occurs alongside lupus. This dryness is caused by reduced tear production or an imbalance in the tear film that keeps the eyes lubricated. Symptoms of dry skin look like:

• Stinging or burning sensation
• Feeling like something is in your eye
• Red, irritated eyes
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light

Tips for Managing Dry Eyes:

• Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide relief from dryness. Look for preservative-free options to avoid irritation.
• Avoid Irritants: Protect your eyes from wind, smoke, and direct air conditioning, all of which can worsen dryness.
• Stay Hydrated: Again, hydration is key. Drinking plenty of water can help maintain moisture in your eyes.
• Limit Screen Time: Staring at screens for long periods can reduce blinking, which dries out your eyes. Take regular breaks and practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is another common issue for lupus patients, particularly for those with Sjögren’s syndrome. It occurs when the salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva, leading to difficulty eating, and speaking, or even increased dental problems. Symptoms of dry skin look like:

• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
• Cracked lips or mouth sores
• Frequent thirst

Tips for Managing Dry Mouth:

• Drink Water Frequently: Sip water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist, especially when eating.
• Use Sugar-Free Gum or Lozenges: Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free lozenges stimulates saliva production.
• Use a Humidifier: At night, using a humidifier can help keep your throat and mouth moist while you sleep.
• Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: These can dehydrate you and make dry mouth worse.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent dental issues like cavities, which can become more common with dry mouth. Talk to your dentist about fluoride treatments for extra protection.

Across all these symptoms, staying hydrated is crucial. While hydration alone won’t solve all dryness issues, it plays a significant role in maintaining the moisture levels in your body. For lupus patients, who may be more prone to dehydration due to medication side effects or flare-ups, drinking enough water is a foundational part of managing dryness. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, and adjust your intake based on your activity level, climate, and overall health.

Dryness is a common yet frustrating symptom for those living with lupus, but with the right strategies, it can be managed. By paying attention to your skin, eyes, mouth, and hydration levels, you can reduce discomfort and prevent flare-ups associated with chronic dryness. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you’re managing your