Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that is the result of your immune system damaging the glands that produce and control the moisture in your body. The most common symptom is a chronic, unusual dryness in your eyes and mouth. Your family practice doctor will help you find a treatment that manages your symptoms and minimizes the effects on your daily life.
If you have Sjögren’s syndrome, the affected damaged glands in your body that produce, and control moisture are:
- Your tear system.
- Mouth and your salivary glands.
- Nose.
- Throat.
- Your digestive system.
Visit your physician if you are experiencing new dryness in your eyes, mouth or anywhere else in your body.
The Symptoms of Sjögren’s Syndrome
The most common symptom of Sjögren’s syndrome is unusual dryness, including:
- Dry or itchy eyes.
- Dry mouth, xerostomia, mouth sores or thickened saliva.
- Dry skin.
- Dry nose and frequent nosebleeds.
- Dry throat, including coughing frequently.
In addition to dryness, Sjögren’s syndrome can cause other symptoms, including:
- Joint pain.
- Muscle pain or weakness.
- Swollen lymph nodes.
- Fatigue.
- Trouble swallowing or talking.
- Brain fog.
- Loss of taste.
- Tooth decay.
- Skin rashes.
- Neuropathy.
- Heartburn or other types of indigestion.
- Light sensitivity.
Treatments for Sjögren’s Syndrome
There is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome, but your doctor will help you find a treatment plan that reduces its impact on your quality of life. Your treatment will depend on where Sjögren’s syndrome affects you.
Some common treatments for dryness in your eyes and mouth include:
- Artificial tears- Your doctor might suggest over-the-counter eye drops, prescription drops or lubricants to keep your eyes moist.
- Dry eye surgery, punctal plugs- An ophthalmologist can close some or all of your tear ducts to keep your natural tears in your eyes.
- Saliva producers- Your dentist might suggest over-the-counter saliva supplements or prescriptions to help your body produce more saliva. They may suggest you chew gum, sip water during the day or suck on ice to help moisturize your mouth.
- Special mouthwash or dental care products- If you have Sjögren’s syndrome you have a higher risk of dental health issues, so you might need more frequent cleanings, special fluoride treatments or prescription toothpaste and mouthwash.
Treatments for pain and other symptoms can include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers- Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or acetaminophen can relieve pain and reduce swelling. Do not take these medications for more than 10 days in a row without talking to your doctor.
- Corticosteroids- Prescription anti-inflammatory medications your doctor will give you as pills or injections.
- Immunosuppressants- Prescription medications that calm your immune system and reduce how active it is. Your doctor may recommend disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.
Sjögren’s syndrome can certainly be annoying to manage. It is frustrating to have dry eyes and a dry mouth. Most people with Sjögren’s syndrome are able to manage their symptoms very well once they find a good combination of treatments that works.
If you are worried about dry mouth, speak with your dentist.