Sjögren’s illness, also known as Sjögren’s syndrome, is a long-term autoimmune disorder where the immune system unintentionally attacks the glands that supply moisture to the lips, eyes, and other body parts.
In addition to weariness, joint discomfort, or muscle pains, the main symptoms are dry eyes and dry mouth. Organs such the kidneys, neurological system, or lungs may occasionally be affected by Sjögren’s. Women are significantly more likely than males to suffer from the illness.
Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and other autoimmune diseases can coexist with Sjögren’s illness.
A variety of therapies can help manage symptoms and enhance day-to-day living, but there is no cure.
Although Sjögren’s illness can affect anyone of any age or demography, it is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 40 and 60.
Sjögren’s illness symptoms differ widely from person to person, might change in severity, and can get worse with time.
Typical symptoms consist of:
* Wet eyes. You may experience burning, itching, or a sand-like sensation in your eyes. Dryness can occasionally result in sensitivity to bright light or impaired vision. Inflammation may cause inflamed, itchy eyelids.* Dry mouth. Swallowing, speaking, and tasting may become challenging if you have a dry or chalky feeling. Additionally, less saliva increases the risk of mouth diseases, including thrush and cavities.
Dry mouth is the primary issue for some people, dry eyes are the main issue for others, and other people have both issues equally. Sjögren’s illness can sometimes impact other organs and tissues, resulting in more extensive effects across the body. Other consequences might result in:
* Weakness.
* A sore joint.
* Wet skin.
* A dry cough, dry throat, and dry nasal passages.
* Skin irritations.* Painful muscles.
Reflux of acid.
* A dry vagina.
* The glands surrounding the neck and face swell.
* Having difficulty falling asleep.* Memory issues and lack of focus.
* Weakness, tingling, and numbness, particularly in the limbs.
* Breathing difficulties or dyspnea.
Weakness of the muscles.
Some patients describe crippling pain and exhaustion, and the symptoms can be quite severe.
Although the overall risk is still low, people with Sjögren’s illness have a slightly increased risk of acquiring lymphoma, a kind of cancer.
An autoimmune condition called Sjögren’s illness causes the immune system to target healthy tissues. The immune system typically defends the body against illness and infection.
Although the precise origin of Sjögren’s illness is yet unknown, environmental and genetic factors probably contribute. Variations in some immune system-related genes may be involved, according to research.
Sjögren’s illness causes inflammation and dryness in the mouth and eyes as the immune system targets the glands that produce saliva and tears. The range of symptoms may occasionally be increased by the involvement of other organs or tissues.
Since there isn’t a single test for Sjögren’s illness, doctors usually interview you about your symptoms and do a number of tests to get the diagnosis. The illness may be diagnosed by a rheumatologist, an expert in autoimmune disorders. To aid with the diagnosis, a dentist or an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) could also do specific tests.
In order to identify Sjögren’s illness, your doctor may inquire about your medical history, particularly the onset and frequency of dry mouth and eyes. The following tests may also be ordered by your doctor.
Eye exams to determine whether your tear production is normal and to identify any dry eye damage. The amount of saliva produced by your salivary glands can be measured by salivary gland testing. Biopsy and ultrasound imaging can be used to assess if inflammation has changed the tissues of the salivary glands. Blood tests can identify antibodies often linked to Sjögren’s disease, but they are insufficient for a conclusive diagnosis because these antibodies can also be found in healthy people or people with other conditions.
To find out if your symptoms are being caused by another illness or condition, your doctor could prescribe additional laboratory or imaging testing.
The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and avoid complications because Sjögren’s illness has no known cure. Depending on which bodily systems are impacted, several approaches are used, most of which include medicine and self-care. Certain drugs might exacerbate dryness, so always let your doctor know about them.
Eye Procedures
Artificial tears (eye drops). There are many types of eye drops, and you may have to test a few to discover the one that works best for you. Some patients require prescription eye drops that contain drugs to lower inflammation in the eyes and suppress the immune system. Eye lotions. They keep the eyes moist for several hours and are thicker than eye drops. Most individuals take them when they sleep since they might cause blurred eyesight. Tear duct blocking plugs. Tiny plugs inserted into the corners of the eyes’ tear ducts prevent drainage and prolong the retention of tears. The process is carried out at an ophthalmologist’s (eye doctor’s) office and only takes a few minutes.
Mouth Therapies
Artificial saliva: To assist in keeping your lips moist, your doctor could suggest saliva alternatives.
Saliva stimulants: Some drugs can assist your body in producing more saliva naturally and aid in the production of tears. Antifungal medications: Your doctor may recommend an antifungal therapy if you have a fungal infection, such as thrush, which is more probable when your mouth is dry.
Painkillers, either over-the-counter or prescription. These medications ease the agony brought on by swollen glands as well as joint and muscular pain.
For severe symptoms like rashes or joint pain, doctors may recommend anti-malarial treatments or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Some people may benefit from these medications, even though they are not explicitly licensed for Sjögren’s illness.
Adrenaline. These drugs can reduce pain and inflammation, but because of their possible adverse effects, they are often reserved for more serious issues. The lowest effective dosage is used by doctors for the shortest amount of time.
Medication for acid reflux. People with Sjögren’s illness may have more acidic stomachs due to decreased saliva production. To offset this impact, some people may use these medications.
Sjögren’s Disease: Who Treats It?
The main treatments for Sjögren’s disease are:
Rheumatologists are medical professionals who specialize in autoimmune disorders and treat conditions affecting the joints, muscles, and bones.
The following other experts could be engaged in your care:
Dentists, who treat your teeth and gums.
Mental health specialists may assist individuals in managing challenges that may arise from their medical issues at home and at work.
Nephrologists treat issues related to kidney illness.
Diseases affecting the neurological system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, are treated by neurologists.
Ophthalmologists, who focus on treating the eyes. Otolaryngologists focus on treating the nose, throat, and ears.
Primary care physicians, such as family doctors or internal medicine specialists, handle additional issues as they come up and coordinate treatment across other healthcare professionals. Pulmonologists focus on treating lung disorders.
Although there is no treatment for Sjögren’s illness, most patients may successfully manage their symptoms and continue a normal lifestyle. The following suggestions might enhance everyday comfort.
looking after your eyes.
Keep your eyes safe from winds, drafts, and smoke-filled spaces.
Use wraparound glasses or have side shields installed on your spectacles.
Avoid using eye drops that irritate. Try another brand or prescription if one is bothering you. Preservative-free eye drops are normally necessary if you use them four or more times a day.
Install a whole-home humidifier in your HVAC system or place humidifiers in the areas where you spend the most time, such as the bedroom.* To ease the discomfort of blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), apply warm compresses to your eyes. A diluted solution of a light detergent, such as baby shampoo, can also be used to cleanse the eyes gently.
Taking care of your teeth.
Frequently brush and floss your teeth. Some toothpastes are made specifically for dry mouth sufferers. To help prevent cavities, most individuals should use toothpaste containing fluoride.
To keep your mouth moist throughout the day, bring a water bottle with you and drink from it. Another strategy to fight dry eyes is to stay hydrated.
Your salivary glands produce more saliva when you chew gum or suck on hard candies. Use sugar-free candies and gum.
Get checked out and cleaned by a dentist at least twice a year. Discuss fluoride treatments with your dentist. If you experience burning, pain, and white spots within your mouth—symptoms of candidiasis, often known as thrush—see your doctor or dentist.
Handling additional symptoms of Sjögren’s illness.
Apply moisture to dry areas.
Regularly moisturize dry skin, especially with products designed for extremely dry skin.
For dry lips, apply lip balms, such as those made of petroleum jelly.
For vaginal dryness, use treatments like estrogen creams or moisturizers.
If you have a dry nose, use saline sprays.
Get help and educate yourself.
Get as much information as you can about the illness and join a support group to speak with others who are coping with it. Having a network of support might help you get through challenging circumstances.
It can be difficult to manage a chronic illness, so if emotional issues come up, see a mental health specialist.
To help manage acid reflux, maintain a healthy weight, and watch what you consume. Eat slowly and avoid common triggers like tomato sauce, onions, and fried or fatty foods.
To fight exhaustion and enhance sleep, eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet and exercise frequently. Before starting an exercise program, consult your physician.
To properly manage your disease, see your medical professionals on a regular basis and heed their advice.
Source:
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS). Sjögren’s Disease.
https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/sjogrens-disease
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This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment recommendations specific to your condition.
