Sjögren's disease, often shortened to Sjögren's, is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture-producing glands.
Understanding Sjögren's Disease
Sjögren's disease is more than just dry eyes and a dry mouth; it’s a systemic autoimmune condition. This means it can affect multiple parts of the body due to the immune system's attack on various glands. Here's a breakdown:
Key Features of Sjögren's:
- Autoimmune Nature: The immune system, which usually defends against infections, mistakenly targets the body's own tissues, specifically glands responsible for producing fluids like tears and saliva.
- Chronic Condition: Sjögren's is a long-lasting (chronic) condition. It requires ongoing management rather than a short-term cure.
- Moisture Gland Impact: The primary glands affected are those producing moisture for the eyes and mouth. This leads to the most common symptoms.
Symptoms of Sjögren's
The symptoms can vary greatly among individuals, but here are common signs:
- Dry Eyes: This can manifest as a gritty, burning, or itchy sensation in the eyes. People may also experience light sensitivity and blurred vision.
- Dry Mouth: This is often described as feeling like cotton mouth. It can make swallowing and speaking difficult and may contribute to dental problems.
- Other Potential Issues:
- Fatigue.
- Joint pain and swelling.
- Skin dryness or rashes.
- Vaginal dryness in women.
- Swollen glands.
- Nerve damage.
How Sjögren’s affects the body:
| Affected Body Part | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Eyes | Dryness, Burning, Light Sensitivity |
| Mouth | Dryness, Difficulty Swallowing |
| Skin | Dryness, Rashes |
| Joints | Pain, Swelling |
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing Sjögren's can involve blood tests, eye exams, and saliva tests. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications since there is no cure.
- Managing Dryness: Artificial tears, saliva substitutes, and good oral hygiene are often recommended.
- Managing Pain and Inflammation: Doctors may prescribe medications like anti-inflammatory drugs or immunosuppressants.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Staying hydrated, using humidifiers, and avoiding irritants can help with managing symptoms.
Important Note
Sjögren's disease is a complex condition that needs medical attention from qualified healthcare professionals.
