Sjogren’s Syndrome

Sjogren’s Syndrome primarily appears as general dryness of the mouth and eyes. Moisture producing glands of the body are most important as the moisture is used by the body to help rid itself of foreign substances and toxins.

The cause of Sjogren’s Syndrome are not specifically known, but is thought to be the result of environmental and genetic factors. All autoimmune disease, including Sjogren’s Syndrome, the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells causing inflammation. In Sjogren’s Syndrome the subsequent inflammation in the moisture producing glands can be permanent making it difficult for them to secrete fluids to those parts of the body. Secondary versions of Sjogren’s Syndrome can arise as a side effect of a viral or bacterial infection, or as a secondary symptom of another autoimmune disease.

Dryness of the eyes and mouth may not seem overly bad, but as in many autoimmune diseases the conditions can worsen resulting in extreme symptoms with a serious impact in quality of life. Sjogren’s Syndrome is not very easily diagnosed, given the common main symptoms which can include, dry mouth, dry eyes, dry skin, a dry cough, fatigue, general joint pain, thyroid problems, vaginal dryness, and numbness in the arms and legs.

If symptoms become more serious a blood test can be conducted to reveal higher levels of antibodies that are associated with Sjogren’s Syndrome. Lip or salivary gland biopsy can show high level of lymphocytes which form near damaged salivary glands caused by the syndrome. Once diagnosis is made treatment must begin as with many autoimmune disease unfortunately there is no known cure or treatment for Sjogren’s Syndrome, remedies can only lessen the severity of the symptoms and support overall health.