Sjogren's Syndrome
What is it?
Sjogren's syndrome is a chronic inflammatory disease in which mucous membranes become extremely dry. It particularly affects the mouth and
eyes.
Who gets it?
Sjogren's syndrome is more common in women than men. While it affects all age groups, most patients are diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 55. Patients with autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus often also have Sjogren's
syndrome.
What causes it?
The cause of Sjogren's syndrome is not known for sure, but it appears to be an autoimmune disease. Our bodies' immune cells attack and kill what they see as foreign invaders, usually bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, with autoimmune disorders, something causes the immune system to see the body's own tissues as foreign invaders. The immune cells then damage and destroy these tissues. In Sjogren's syndrome, white blood cells damage the glands that secrete fluids. Sjogren's syndrome sometimes runs in families, which may also point to a genetic connection. Researchers are also looking at the possibility that hormonal factors are involved because women are more likely to get this disease. It may also be caused by a virus, where the immune system malfunctions and is unable to stop fighting even after the virus is gone. There are three types of Sjogren's syndrome. Primary Sjogren's syndrome occurs alone, with no other associated disorders. Secondary Sjogren's syndrome is accompanied by other autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, vasculitis, or polymyositis. Sjogren's syndrome that affects only the eyes is called sicca
complex.
What are the symptoms?
Sjogren's syndrome dries out the mucus membranes. This can destroy the salivary glands, resulting in poor senses of taste and smell, extremely dry mouth, and difficulty and pain with swallowing and eating. Because saliva normally washes the teeth clean and helps prevent tooth decay, people with Sjogren's syndrome usually see an increase in cavities. The parotid glands, which produce saliva, may also become enlarged. These glands are located behind the cheeks and in front of the ears. Sjogren's syndrome can destroy the tear glands, causing damage to the cornea, itching, burning, redness, and increased sensitivity to light. Thick secretions often collect in the inside corners of the eyes. Damage to the trachea and lung tissues can lead to pneumonia and other respiratory infections. Nasal dryness may cause frequent nosebleeds. The sac around the heart can become infected, called pericarditis. Vaginal dryness is another common symptom. Sjogren's syndrome can also affect the liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and lymph nodes. Because Sjogren's syndrome is an inflammatory disease, many patients will also develop mild symptoms of arthritis.
How is it diagnosed?
If you have dry mouth, dry eyes, and joint inflammation for at least three consecutive months, you most likely have Sjogren's syndrome. To make a definite diagnosis, your doctor will test the amount of tears you produce by placing a strip of special paper under your lower eyelid and checking the amount of moisture your eye produces. This is called the Schirmer test. Your doctor may also test the amount of saliva you produce and order a blood test to look for abnormal antibodies that point to Sjogren's syndrome. Blood tests can also reveal any associated autoimmune
disorders.
What is the treatment?
While there is no cure for Sjogren's syndrome, there are many effective ways to relieve symptoms. These include using artificial tear drops in the eyes and keeping the mouth moistened by sipping fluids frequently, chewing sugar-free gum, or using a special mouthwash. Because saliva is reduced, it is important to clean your teeth well and avoid sugary foods. If vaginal dryness is a problem, your doctor can recommend an over-the-counter treatment to relieve discomfort. Joint pain and swollen salivary glands can be treated with pain relievers and rest. If you have secondary Sjogren's syndrome, your doctor will recommend additional treatment that is specific to your primary
disorder.
Self-care tips
There is no known way to prevent Sjogren's syndrome. However, by following your doctor's recommendations for treatment, you can avoid any serious complications. Keep in mind that drugs that reduce the amount of saliva will make your dryness worse. These include antihistamines and decongestants commonly taken for the common cold.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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