Is blurred vision and a dry mouth a sign of illness?

Apr 29, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a 35-year-old male. Recently, I have been experiencing blurred vision and dry mouth, which isn't significantly relieved even after drinking water. This situation worries me, and I wonder whether it indicates an underlying health problem. Could you please tell me if blurred vision and dry mouth are signs of illness?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Shuai

Blurred vision and dry mouth can be caused by various factors and do not necessarily indicate a serious illness. Blurred vision may result from prolonged use of electronic devices, eye fatigue, dry eye syndrome, or refractive errors. Dry mouth might be related to dehydration, oral hygiene issues, medication side effects, or certain systemic conditions such as diabetes. These symptoms are usually temporary when they occur individually, but if both symptoms appear together and persist for a prolonged period, it may indicate an underlying systemic disease, such as diabetes, Sjögren's syndrome, or other metabolic disorders. These conditions can disrupt the body's fluid balance or affect nerve function, leading to the aforementioned discomforts.

It is recommended to maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water and avoiding prolonged eye strain, with regular eye rest breaks. Artificial tears can be used to relieve eye discomfort, and maintaining appropriate indoor humidity with a humidifier is also helpful. Good oral hygiene, including regular tooth brushing and use of mouthwash, is important. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is best to consult a doctor for a comprehensive examination to rule out potential health problems. Keeping a record of symptom changes and lifestyle habits can assist the doctor in making an accurate diagnosis and providing appropriate treatment.