Summary about Disease
Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture-producing glands, such as the salivary and tear glands. This leads to dryness of the eyes and mouth, and can also affect other organs.
Symptoms
Dry eyes (xerophthalmia): gritty feeling, burning, sensitivity to light, blurred vision.
Dry mouth (xerostomia): difficulty swallowing, altered taste, dental cavities, cracked lips.
Fatigue
Joint pain and stiffness
Swollen salivary glands
Skin rashes or dry skin
Vaginal dryness
Persistent dry cough
Causes
The exact cause is unknown. It is believed to be a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers (like viral infections) that activate the immune system.
Medicine Used
Over-the-counter eye drops (artificial tears): For dry eyes.
Prescription eye drops (e.g., cyclosporine, lifitegrast): To increase tear production.
Saliva stimulants (e.g., pilocarpine, cevimeline): To increase saliva production.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): For joint pain.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) (e.g., hydroxychloroquine): To suppress the immune system.
Immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate, azathioprine): For more severe cases affecting organs.
Biologic agents (e.g. Rituximab): for systemic cases
Is Communicable
No, Sjogren's syndrome is not contagious. It is an autoimmune disease and cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Precautions
Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene.
Use artificial tears frequently.
Stay hydrated.
Avoid dry environments.
Use humidifiers.
Protect skin from sun exposure.
Avoid medications that can worsen dryness (decongestants, antihistamines).
Manage stress.
Quit smoking.
How long does an outbreak last?
Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic condition, not characterized by outbreaks of short duration. Symptoms can fluctuate in severity over time, with periods of increased symptoms (flares) followed by periods of relative remission. There is no defined length of an "outbreak.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: To assess symptoms and gland function.
Blood tests: To check for antibodies (anti-Ro/SSA, anti-La/SSB, rheumatoid factor, antinuclear antibody) and other markers of inflammation.
Eye exams: Schirmer's test (measures tear production), slit-lamp examination.
Salivary gland tests: Salivary flow rate, salivary gland biopsy.
Lip biopsy: To check for inflammation.
Imaging tests: Sialography (imaging of salivary glands).
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of symptoms can be gradual, making it difficult to pinpoint an exact timeline. Initial symptoms are often mild dryness of the eyes and mouth. Fatigue and joint pain may develop later. For some, the disease progresses slowly, while for others, symptoms worsen more quickly. Organ involvement may occur years after the initial dryness symptoms.
Important Considerations
Sjögren's syndrome can affect people differently, with a wide range of severity.
It is important to find a doctor experienced in treating autoimmune diseases.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Sjögren's syndrome can increase the risk of lymphoma.
Pregnancy can be affected, especially in women with anti-Ro/SSA antibodies.
Co-existing autoimmune conditions are common.