Sjogren's Syndrome

Sjogren's is an autoimmune disorder. The symptoms associated with Sjogren's are caused by the infiltration of immune-system cells, usually B and T lymphocytes, into the glands responsible for secreting fluid. This particular autoimmune illness appears as inflammation in certain glands of the body that produce moisture such as the (lacrimal glands) that leads to decreased water production for tears and eye dryness and the salivary glands (including the parotid glands) that leads to mouth dryness.

Sjogren's syndrome that only involves gland inflammation (resulting dry eyes and mouth, etc.) and is not associated with a connective tissue disease is referred to as primary Sjogren's syndrome.

Secondary Sjogren's syndrome involves not only gland inflammation but is also associated with a connective tissue disease such as systemic lupus, rheumatoid arthritis erythematosus or scleroderma.

The main symptoms of Sjogren's are chronic dryness of the eyes and mouth, but it is also associated with dryness in external genitalia, the ear, and the nose and throat area. There may also be decreased secretions in the gastrointestinal tract.

The cause of Sjogren's Syndrome is not known, though it may be related to genetic (inherited) factors. Females make up 90% of the people with Sjogren's.

There are medications that can be prescribed that help relieve the dry eyes such as Restasis, and other medications for dry mouth such as pilocarpine (Salagen) and cevimeline (Ecvoxac). Sometimes anti-inflammatories such as Prednisone and autoimmune suppressants such as azathioprine and cyclophosphamide are prescribed.

Other useful tips include sucking on lemons to stimulate salive production, using salt water (saline) solutions to nose dryness, drinking plenty of water and using a dehumidifier to add moisture to the air in your bedroom.