Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disorder that typically results in dry eyes and mouth, along with occasional symptoms like joint pain or lung issues. It happens when the immune system attacks glands that produce tears and saliva. Often, Sjogren’s presents itself alongside other autoimmune conditions, so additional symptoms might arise.
This syndrome affects roughly 0.5-1% of people, with women experiencing it more often than men by a factor of ten. Diagnosing it usually involves a medical history review, a physical exam, and blood tests. While there is no cure, treatments like eye drops and medications can help ease the symptoms, though some discomfort might persist. It’s crucial to watch out for complications like lymphoma, which can occur in a minority of cases.
Sjogren’s can coincide with other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or systemic sclerosis, among others. When it does, it’s referred to as “secondary Sjogren’s.” The symptoms may appear before or after being diagnosed with another autoimmune disease. “Primary Sjogren’s syndrome” is used when the condition occurs without these other syndromes. Most people with Sjogren’s experience “sicca” symptoms caused by extreme dryness, affecting around 80% of those diagnosed.
Dry eyes due to reduced tear production can lead to irritation, soreness, vision problems, and a sensation of a foreign object in the eye. Likewise, decreased saliva production can result in oral discomfort, bad breath, and difficulty swallowing, often increasing the risk of cavities. In some cases, vaginal dryness may occur, potentially causing pain during sex and a higher risk of infections.
Around 70% of individuals with Sjogren’s experience recurring joint pain, mainly in the hands and feet. Less commonly, neuropathy might cause a burning or tingling sensation. Additionally, many report fatigue, which can be their most debilitating symptom. About one-third of people with the condition experience swelling in one or more parotid glands, leading to a slight and sometimes painful lump near the jaw.
Approximately 10% of those with Sjogren’s have skin issues, including vasculitis, and a smaller number encounter kidney problems. Lung problems appear in about 10-20% of cases, which can manifest as chronic coughing or, more seriously, interstitial lung disease, reducing life expectancy. People with secondary Sjogren’s might have further symptoms from the associated autoimmune conditions.
The condition arises when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells, especially the glands that produce tears and saliva. This condition may also impact other body parts. Research is ongoing to understand its genetic and environmental triggers, including abnormal antibodies typically present in SS and related diseases.
While the exact risk factors aren’t fully understood, existing autoimmune conditions might increase the likelihood of developing secondary Sjogren’s. Proper diagnosis includes a comprehensive medical history, a physical examination, and specific tests focusing on severe and persistent dryness of the eyes and mouth.
Though Sjogren’s syndrome has no cure, treatment aims to manage symptoms and enhance life quality. Various options exist, including eye drops, punctual plugs, and scleral lenses for eye dryness, along with devices like SaliPen for stimulating saliva flow. Medications like Salagen and Evoxac may help increase tear and saliva production. In cases of more severe symptoms affecting joints, lungs, or other organs, immunosuppressant medications, including corticosteroids, may be necessary.
Although Sjogren’s can’t be prevented, managing symptoms and minimizing complications is possible. This involves avoiding medications that exacerbate dryness and undergoing regular screenings for conditions like lung disease.
About 5% of individuals with Sjogren’s might develop B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, requiring cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Pregnancy complications are also a risk, necessitating special care for those expecting. Increased susceptibility to yeast infections is another concern.
Even though the syndrome can significantly impact life quality, various treatment and management strategies help mitigate its effects. Stress, a known trigger for symptom flare-ups, should be managed by finding enjoyment in everyday life and seeking support from friends, family, or support groups. Primary Sjogren’s with only dryness symptoms doesn’t typically reduce life expectancy, though complications might. Most people do not experience organ failure, though a small number might develop complications leading to lung failure or other issues. While Sjogren’s doesn’t directly cause weight gain, potential weight loss due to difficulty eating or weight gain from corticosteroid use must be considered.
