Sjögren's Syndrome

The exact cause of Sjögren's syndrome is unknown. Some research suggests that genetics along with environmental factors play a role in the development of the condition. Other research suggests that bacterial or viral infections may trigger the immune system to attack the moisture-producing glands.

What we do know is that Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own healthy cells. The body's immune system begins to destroy cells in the glands that produce saliva, tears, and other fluids in the body. Sjögren's syndrome sometimes begins as a result of another autoimmune disease (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis or lupus), but it may also develop for no known reason.

Primary Sjögren's syndrome develops in people who have no other autoimmune disease, while secondary Sjögren's is most often identified in people who have lupus or rheumatologic disease (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis).

Sjögren's syndrome results in a decrease in the production of tears and saliva, and may affect other areas of the body.

Symptoms commonly associated with Sjögren's syndrome include:

• burning sensation in the eyes
• dry, grainy feeling in the eyes
• dry mouth or throat
• difficulty chewing or swallowing
• swollen glands around the face and neck
• increased sensitivity of the eyes to light

Other possible symptoms include:

• vaginal dryness
• dry nasal passages
• dry skin
• joint pain
• fatigue
• dry, unproductive cough

In addition to the common symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome, complications may arise. The condition may affect other organs including the blood vessels, brain, kidneys, liver, lungs, and pancreas. As well, dry eyes can increase the risk of eye infections or damage to the cornea, and a dry mouth can increase the risk of cavities and tooth loss.

Determining whether or not a person has Sjögren's syndrome requires a number of tests and examinations. Blood tests, tear, and saliva production tests as well as tissue samples from the saliva glands and lip may help provide a diagnosis.

Since certain medications (e.g., antihistamines*, decongestants, diuretics, certain antidiarrhea medications, certain antipsychotic medications, tranquillizers, certain blood pressure medications, antidepressants) and conditions may cause symptoms similar to Sjögren's syndrome, doctors must first rule out these causes.

Blood tests can be used to look for the presence of substances (called antibodies) that are common in people with the condition. Rheumatoid factor in the blood may indicate Sjögren's syndrome because it commonly occurs in people with rheumatoid arthritis and may also occur in people with Sjögren's.

Additionally, chest X-rays and urine samples may also provide clues for a doctor. Affected lungs may appear inflamed, and kidney function may not be at its best in a person with Sjögren's syndrome.

There is no cure for Sjögren's syndrome. Replacing moisture in the body is the main therapy. Replenishing lost moisture eases some of the symptoms of dryness associated with the condition and improves the quality of life for those affected.

Dry mouth: Treating dry mouth is necessary for many people with Sjögren's syndrome. Doctors often recommend saliva substitutes to make a person's mouth feel moist. This can help with eating and speaking throughout the day. Drinking water and chewing sugarless gum can also help keep the mouth moist. There are also medications available, such as pilocarpine, which stimulates the production of saliva. In addition to making speaking and eating easier, keeping the mouth moist is also important to prevent oral infections such as oral thrush (a fungal infection of yeast in the mouth). Keeping the mouth moist and good dental hygiene can help keep your teeth healthy. If you have Sjögren's syndrome, see your dentist regularly.

Dry eyes: Applying tear drops (artificial tears) or tear gel moistens the eyes and protects the cornea from damage. In severe cases, the tear duct that drains tears away from the eye may be closed surgically to keep more tears in the eye. Keeping the eyes moist using artificial tears can help prevent eye infections and cornea damage. It's also important to see your eye doctor regularly, and get medical attention if you have symptoms such as eye pain or redness, as these may be a sign of eye problems.

Other symptoms: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to relieve pain associated with joint inflammation due to other autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. In cases that lead to complications throughout the body, medications to suppress the immune system may be necessary.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2018. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Sjogrens-Syndrome