Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disease that results in dryness of the eyes and mouth. The dryness is brought about by antibodies that attack the tissues and glands of the body, particularly those of the eyes and mouth which decreases the amount of fluid that they secrete.
There are two types of Sjogren’s Syndrome referred to as primary Sjogren’s Syndrome and secondary Sjogren’s Syndrome. The primary syndrome is not associated with any other illnesses, whereas the secondary syndrome is attributed to be a co-disorder of various connective tissue diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and scleroderma.
The Causes Of Sjogren’s Syndrome
While it is still unclear exactly what causes Sjogren’s Syndrome, it is believed to be genetic. It is also more prevalent among people with other autoimmune illnesses like those mentioned above as well as thyroid disease and juvenile diabetes. Interestingly, 90 percent of those affected by Sjogren’s Syndrome are women.
Sjogren’s Syndrome Symptoms
Symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome vary widely from patient to patient, and the syndrome can affect other areas of the body. Here is a brief list of some of the symptoms associated with the syndrome:
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Eye dryness, irritation, and a gritty sensation in the eye.
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Infection and abrasion of the cornea.
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Mouth dryness and difficulty swallowing.
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Mouth sores, gum disease, dental decay, infection, and stones of the parotid gland.
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Inflammation of the breathing passages.
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Dryness during sexual intercourse.A
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Arthritis, enlarged lymph nodes, and kidney, nerve, and muscle disease.
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Inflammation of the blood vessels.
The tests to check for Sjogren’s Syndrome are generally routine and are performed by an ophthalmologist or physician. In some cases, gland biopsies may be taken, but a simple blood test usually pinpoints the condition.
Sjogren’s Syndrome Cure And Treatment
Since there is no cure for Sjogren’s Syndrome, treatment for the syndrome is approached symptomatically. Infections are treated with antibiotics and other symptoms are alleviated through the use of prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Artificial tears and eye lubricant ointments are commonly used to relieve dry eyes. Prescription drops for the eyes are helpful in reducing inflammation and improving tear gland function. Your ophthalmologist can even perform a procedure that plugs the tear duct so that tears stay on the eyes for a longer period of time.
Drinking plenty of fluids is recommended to alleviate dry mouth symptoms. Prescription medications that increase saliva production can also be helpful. Attentive dental care is also needed to avoid complications and infections. If an infection does occur, prompt treatment is needed to avoid further complications.
Other over-the-counter remedies include nasal sprays and vaginal lubricant. Sucking on lemon drops has also been found to be helpful in increasing the production of saliva. Various eye drops and artificial tears are available without prescription as well.
In severe cases, immune suppression medications may become necessary. These include cortisone, azathioprine, and cyclophosphamide. These are used sparingly and only for severe cases that involve symptoms such as inflammation of the blood vessels or vasculitis.
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