Sjogren's Syndrome

Sjogren’s Syndrome

The autoimmune disease which is characterized by dry eyes and dry mouth. Sjogren’s syndrome usually associated with other autoimmune disorder like rheumatoid arthritis. It usually occurs in people older than 40 years of age.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome include:Sjogren's Syndrome Symptoms Causes Treatment

  • Dry mouth
  • Dry eyes
  • Itching in eyes
  • Difficulty in swallowing and speaking
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Fatigue
  • Prolonged cough
  • Joint pain
  • Joint stiffness
  • Skin rashes
  • Corneal ulcer
Causes

The exact cause of this disorder is still unknown. In autoimmune disorder body’s immune cells start attacking on own body tissue and destroy them. In Sjogren’s syndrome many organs of body attack by immune systems including liver, lungs, kidneys, skin, and thyroid gland etc..

Diagnosis

After taking history and conducting physical examination your doctor will recommend the following test to rule out the other diseases:

  • Blood test to check the complete blood cells count
  • Check the presences of autoantibody in the blood
  • Check inflammatory mediators in blood
  • Urinary analysis
  • Eye examination
  • Imaging test to rule out the other causes
  • Biopsy of salivary glands to rule out the malignancy
Treatment

Treatment options for Sjogren’s syndrome include:

  • Eyedrops like cyclosporin to reduce the eye inflammation
  • Pilocarpine to increase the saliva production
  • NSAIDs to reduce the inflammation
  • Surgical procedures to block tear duct which drain the tears to prevent the dryness of eyes.
Lifestyle and home remedies

Following tips will help you:

  • Eye lubricant
  • Artificial tears
  • Use humidifier to prevent dryness in environment
  • Avoid smoking
  • Use artificial saliva
  • Take more fluids
  • Use nasal spray
Ask Doctor
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