[22M] Experiencing dry mouth, congestion, and occasional vision issues

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible causes for your symptoms include:

• Side effects of medication: Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) is known to cause dry mouth and can sometimes cause headaches and fatigue. It can also cause eye dryness and vision problems in some people.

  • If Sudafed is the cause, your symptoms should resolve once you stop taking the medication. However, do not stop taking any medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

• Dehydration: This can cause dry mouth, fatigue, and headaches. It can also cause dry eyes and vision problems in severe cases.

  • Treatment involves drinking more fluids, especially water.

• Sjögren's Syndrome: This is an autoimmune disorder that often presents with dry mouth and dry eyes. It can also cause fatigue and joint pain. However, it's less likely in your case given your age and sex.

  • Treatment usually involves managing symptoms, such as using artificial tears for dry eyes and drinking plenty of water for dry mouth.

What you can do

1. Keep yourself hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid drinks with caffeine as they can make your mouth drier.

2. Use a humidifier: This can help keep your mouth and throat moist, especially while you sleep.

3. Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candies: This can stimulate saliva flow and help keep your mouth moist.

4. Avoid alcohol and tobacco: These can dry out your mouth.

5. Consult your healthcare provider: They can assess your symptoms, consider your medical history, and provide a formal diagnosis. They can also advise you on whether you should continue taking Sudafed.

What you should look out for

• If your symptoms worsen or persist even after stopping Sudafed and increasing your fluid intake, you should seek medical attention.
• If you develop new symptoms such as joint pain, a rash, or a persistent cough, you should see a healthcare provider.
• If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe headache, seek immediate medical attention.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your personal situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.