What condition is indicated by dry mouth and eyes?

Sjögren syndrome is an autoimmune condition characterized by the body's immune system mistakenly attacking its own moisture-producing glands, leading to dry mouth (xerostomia) and dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca). This condition often presents symptoms that significantly impact a person's quality of life, and it occurs commonly in association with other autoimmune diseases.

The distinguishing aspect of Sjögren syndrome is specifically the combination of both dry mouth and dry eyes, which are hallmark symptoms. The underlying mechanism involves inflammation and damage to the salivary and lacrimal glands, resulting in decreased secretion of saliva and tears.

Other conditions like diabetes can lead to dry mouth due to factors such as reduced saliva production or complications affecting the nerves, but dry eyes are not as commonly featured. Hyperthyroidism may result in various symptoms but typically doesn't present with both dryness of the mouth and eyes at the same time, and allergies usually cause symptoms such as sneezing, itching, or runny nose rather than the persistent dryness seen in Sjögren syndrome. Thus, the specific presentation of both symptoms together is what confirms Sjögren syndrome as the correct answer.