Sjögren’s Syndrome

Overview

Sjögren’s Syndrome (pronounced SHOW-gren’s) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body’s moisture-producing glands, leading to long-term dryness in various parts of the body. It primarily affects the eyes and mouth, but can also impact the nose, throat, skin, and vagina.

Affected Areas

1. Eyes:
   • Reduced tear production causing dry, itchy, or burning eyes.
2. Mouth:
   • Reduced saliva leading to dry mouth, sores, thick saliva, or difficulty swallowing.
3. Nose:
   • Dryness leading to frequent nosebleeds.
4. Throat:
   • Persistent dryness causing coughing and hoarseness.
5. Skin:
   • Dry and itchy skin.
6. Vagina:
   • Vaginal dryness, which may lead to discomfort during sexual activity.

Symptoms

• Dry or itchy eyes (burning or gritty sensation).
• Dry mouth (difficulty speaking or swallowing).
• Dry throat and frequent coughing.
• Dry skin or rashes.
• Vaginal dryness (discomfort during sexual activity).
• Dry nose and frequent nosebleeds.

Causes

• The exact cause of Sjögren’s Syndrome is unknown.
• It is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.
• It can develop as:
  • Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome (independent condition).
  • Secondary Sjögren’s Syndrome (associated with other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus).

Risk Factors

Certain groups have a higher risk of developing Sjögren’s Syndrome:

• Gender:
  • Women and those assigned female at birth (account for more than 90% of cases).
• Age:
  • Most commonly affects individuals aged 45 to 55.
• Other Autoimmune Conditions:
  • People with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or scleroderma.
• Family History:
  • Those with a biological relative diagnosed with Sjögren’s Syndrome.

Complications

If left untreated, Sjögren’s Syndrome can lead to severe complications:

1. Oral and Eye Infections:
   • Increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and eye infections like conjunctivitis.
2. Kidney and Liver Dysfunction:
   • Abnormal kidney or liver function, leading to diseases like interstitial nephritis or autoimmune hepatitis.
3. Lymphoma:
   • Higher risk of developing non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
4. Lung Issues:
   • Inflammation leading to lung conditions resembling pneumonia.
5. Neurological Problems:
   • Numbness, weakness, or tingling in the limbs due to nerve damage.

Treatment

Since there is no cure for Sjögren’s Syndrome, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life.

1. Eye Dryness

• Artificial Tears:
  • Over-the-counter or prescription eye drops to keep eyes moist.
• Punctal Plugs:
  • Minor surgery to close tear ducts, helping retain natural tears longer.
• Moisture Goggles:
  • Goggles that keep the eyes moist in dry environments.

2. Mouth Dryness

• Saliva Substitutes:
  • Over-the-counter saliva supplements or lozenges that stimulate saliva production.
• Chewing Gum:
  • Sugar-free gum can help increase saliva flow.
• Hydration:
  • Sipping water frequently throughout the day.
• Dental Care:
  • Frequent dental check-ups, fluoride treatments, and prescription toothpaste or mouthwash to prevent cavities and gum disease.

3. Vaginal Dryness

• Vaginal Moisturisers:
  • Over-the-counter or prescription lubricants to maintain moisture.
• Hormone Therapy:
  • Estrogen therapy may be recommended for hormonal imbalances.

4. Skin and Nose Dryness

• Moisturisers:
  • Use emollient-rich moisturisers to prevent dry skin.
• Nasal Sprays:
  • Saline nasal sprays can prevent nasal dryness and reduce the risk of nosebleeds.

Lifestyle Tips

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to manage dryness symptoms.
• Avoid Irritants: Limit exposure to smoke, dust, and dry environments.
• Use a Humidifier: Maintain humidity levels indoors to prevent dryness.
• Balanced Diet: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation.
• Regular Exercise: Helps improve circulation and overall health.