Medications that increase the risk of dryness, such as tranquilizers and decongestants, should be avoided when possible. If artificial tears do not provide adequate relief, the tear ducts can be closed. This prevents available tears from draining out of the eye and is a procedure usually performed by an eye specialist. Individuals with the most severe dry eyes sometimes use goggle type of glasses to minimize evaporation of the tears. Dry mouth is one of the most difficult symptoms to treat.
Some people prefer mouth sprays and rinses that are designed to mimic saliva.
Pilocarpine, an eye drop occasionally prescribed for glaucoma, has been taken orally by some people to stimulate saliva. Evoxac is available in a 30 milligram pill. It is generally taken three times daily. Persons with certain types of glaucoma, unstable heart disease, stomach ulcers and asthma should be cautious about taking Salagen or Evoxac. Individuals with decreased saliva need to be very conscientious about dental care, including frequent trips to the dentist, to guard against cavity formation.