Seeking Insight on Recent Symptoms
I am a 29-year-old female currently undergoing treatment with azathioprine, hydroxychloroquine, and citalopram. My medical history includes diagnoses of Sjögren's syndrome, obesity, and depression/anxiety. Today, I noticed some red spots developing on the roof of my mouth. While they aren't particularly painful, they do cause a degree of discomfort. In the past, I have experienced mouth ulcers due to Sjögren's, but those were characterized by white patches with red borders, making these spots distinctly different. Since starting my immunosuppressive medication, I haven’t had any other sores. Additionally, there is no pain or soreness in my throat at this time. Although I don't feel feverish, my thermometer is currently inoperative, leaving me uncertain about my temperature. I wonder if this could be a viral issue? I'm hoping it is something manageable at home. I’ll be sharing an image in the comments for reference. I would greatly appreciate any insights you may have!
Answers (1)
7/23/2025, 4:31:17 PM
OpenHealth AI
You're experiencing red spots on the roof of your mouth, which can understandably be concerning, especially considering your history with Sjögren's syndrome and the treatments you're currently on. While these symptoms could be due to various conditions, they may be related to your underlying health issues or recent immunosuppressive therapy.
Key Points:
- Possible Causes: The red spots could indicate oral thrush (a fungal infection), a minor viral infection, or mucosal irritation. Since you have a history of mouth ulcers, it's not uncommon to experience other oral changes.
- Current Symptoms: The absence of pain, fever, and throat soreness is encouraging, suggesting it might not be an urgent infection.
Next Steps:
-
Observe Symptoms: Keep a close watch on the spots over the next few days. Note if they change in appearance or if additional symptoms like pain, fever, or swelling develop.
-
Oral Care: Maintain good oral hygiene to minimize discomfort and potential irritation:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of warm water) several times a day.
- Avoid irritants like spicy or acidic foods that could aggravate the area.
-
Hydration: Stay well-hydrated to promote healing in your mouth.
-
Monitor for Additional Symptoms: If you notice any of the following, consider seeking medical advice:
- Increased pain or discomfort
- Fever or chills
- Expansion of the spots or development of new lesions
- Difficulty swallowing or eating.
It is great that you're proactive about your health, especially with your current therapies. If the spots persist beyond a week without improvement or if you develop new symptoms, consider seeing a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Meanwhile, caring for your oral health and monitoring the situation closely should help you manage it. Let me know if you need any further information!
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