It isn't easy to cope with Sjogren's syndrome disability, especially as the cold New York winter exacerbates your dry skin and dry mouth issues. As New York disability lawyers, we'd like to share a few tips for coping with the symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome this winter:
- Use sugar-free gum or sugar-free/diabetic candies, which will stimulate saliva production.
- Use vitamin E or other non-toxic moisturizing gels on sore parts of the mouth or tongue. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a recommendation.
- Take small sips of water frequently throughout the day to help with mouth and tongue dryness.
- Try not to eat spicy or acidic foods. Although sometimes popular during the holidays, these types of foods can irritate your mucous membranes and create further problems with mouth pain and dryness.
- Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol. The alcohol in these kinds of mouthwashes can actually increase dryness in the long run, and they can further increase the burning and irritation on the tongue or gums.
- Protect yourself from the sun. Always use sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and wear a brimmed hat if possible – even in the winter!
- Protect yourself from the wind. If you need to go out on a blustery day, make sure you use moisturizing lip balm and skin lotion to protect yourself from "wind burn." Be sure to bundle up! Exposure to the cold air is very drying to the skin.
- Avoid hot baths. Soaking in hot water robs the skin of moisture. No matter how cold it is outside, be sure to take warm – not hot – baths or showers, and limit the time you spend in the water. After bathing, gently dry off and apply a good moisturizer.
If you suffer from Sjogren's syndrome, the most important thing you can do is see your doctor regularly and follow his or her instructions for your care. You may find that this kind of regular medical care helps you live more normally and cope better with the disease.
If you need help pursuing Social Security disability for Sjogren's in New York, contact an experienced and compassionate White Plains disability lawyer today at 855-614-4351. We look forward to speaking with you during a completely free, no-obligation legal consultation, and we hope to hear from you soon.