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Suggest Treatment For Shortness Of Breath, Hearing Loss And Tingling Sensation In Ear

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Posted on Fri, 5 Feb 2016
Question: Hi, I am 30 years old. I constantly have a dry mouth and lips and swallowing can be a mission too. I also experience shortness of breath quite often, while also experiencing mild hearing loss and experiencing a tight/tense feeling around my ears. My eyes can also get really dry and sensitive. I drink a lot of water throughout the day, so doubt it is dehydration. I don't think it's hay fever either, because i don't sneeze and sniff throughout the day and my eyes and nose aren't puffy.

Could it be sjogren's syndrome?

Much thanks,

XXXXXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Sjogren's is possible.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXXX

I am sorry you are having trouble. Yes, the dry eyes and dry mouth can be signs of Sjogren's. There are other possible causes, such as dry air, and sometimes even anxiety. However, I think it is important to explore the possibility of Sjogren's.

I would suggest that you make an appointment with your doctor for an exam; and the following blood tests would help sort things out if it is Sjogren's:

Antinuclear anitbody (ANA)
Anti-SSA (Ro)
Anti-SSB (La)
Rheumatoid factor

While not diagnostic, I would also suggest a sedimentation rate (ESR) which is a blood test that shows nonspecific signs of inflammation. The ESR can be elevated for any inflammatory process; and while it is not diagnostic, it can help for following the course of a problem and can show just how much inflammation is going on at a particular time. If you have a cold/infection or an injury at the time it is drawn, it isn't too helpful though.

I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information or clarification.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 3133 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Shortness Of Breath, Hearing Loss And Tingling Sensation In Ear

Brief Answer: Sjogren's is possible. Detailed Answer: Hello XXXXXXX I am sorry you are having trouble. Yes, the dry eyes and dry mouth can be signs of Sjogren's. There are other possible causes, such as dry air, and sometimes even anxiety. However, I think it is important to explore the possibility of Sjogren's. I would suggest that you make an appointment with your doctor for an exam; and the following blood tests would help sort things out if it is Sjogren's: Antinuclear anitbody (ANA) Anti-SSA (Ro) Anti-SSB (La) Rheumatoid factor While not diagnostic, I would also suggest a sedimentation rate (ESR) which is a blood test that shows nonspecific signs of inflammation. The ESR can be elevated for any inflammatory process; and while it is not diagnostic, it can help for following the course of a problem and can show just how much inflammation is going on at a particular time. If you have a cold/infection or an injury at the time it is drawn, it isn't too helpful though. I hope this information helps. Please let me know if I can provide further information or clarification.