What is Sjögren's syndrome?

Sjögren's syndrome (say "SHOW-grins") is a disorder in which the immune system attacks the body's moisture-producing glands, such as the tear glands and the saliva glands. These glands may become scarred and damaged, and extreme dryness in the eyes and mouth (sicca syndrome) may develop. Sjögren's syndrome may also cause fatigue, pain in the joints, and problems with the function of vital organs, such as the lungs, kidneys, and nerves.

Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease, in which a person's immune system attacks its own tissues as though they were foreign substances. Sjögren's affects over one million people throughout the United States and is most common in white women who are in their 40s and 50s. Women and men of all races may develop this disorder; however, nine times more women than men have Sjögren's syndrome.¹

What causes Sjögren's syndrome?

The exact cause of Sjögren's syndrome is not known. Experts believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may cause this disorder.² Heredity may be a factor, since Sjögren's syndrome sometimes runs in families. Hormones may play a role, since this disorder often affects women who are at or near the age of menopause, but this relationship remains unclear.¹

What are the symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome?

Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome include having extremely dry eyes and mouth that has persisted for at least 3 months and is not due to medications. You may have itching and burning in your eyes, and your mouth may feel as though it is full of cotton.

Sjögren's syndrome may develop in a person who has a connective tissue disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or scleroderma, and is then classified as secondary Sjögren's syndrome. Symptoms of primary (no other associated disorder) and secondary Sjögren's syndrome are the same.

The focus of this topic is primary Sjögren's syndrome.

How is Sjögren's syndrome diagnosed?

Your health professional may diagnose Sjögren's syndrome after taking your medical history, doing a physical examination, and noting symptoms of dry eyes and mouth. Next, he or she will ask whether you are taking any medications such as antihistamines or antidepressants that could cause dry eyes and mouth. If needed, your health professional may order tests for tear flow, eye damage, saliva production, tissue damage, and blood antibodies to confirm a diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome.

How is Sjögren's syndrome treated?

Although there currently is no cure for Sjögren's syndrome, you and your health professional can work together to treat your symptoms. For example, you can use artificial tears to moisten your eyes, and you can use mouth lubricants and saliva substitutes to moisten your mouth and throat.

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