Sjögren's syndrome
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects the glands that produce tears and saliva. It can also involve the joints, lungs, kidneys, nerves and skin. It is much more common in women.
Common symptoms
- Dry eyes, with a gritty or burning sensation
- Dry mouth, difficulty swallowing dry food and more tooth decay
- Fatigue and joint pain
- Swelling of the glands below the ears
- Dryness of the skin and vaginal area
How it is diagnosed
Antibodies (anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB), tests of tear and saliva production and, in many cases, a minor salivary gland biopsy are used. This biopsy is a simple outpatient procedure performed in the office.
Treatment
Artificial tears and saliva substitutes for dryness. Medicines that stimulate saliva, such as pilocarpine. Hydroxychloroquine for joint pain and fatigue, and immunosuppressants when organs are involved.
What you can do
- Drink water often and use sugar-free gum or lozenges
- See your dentist every 6 months
- Avoid direct air conditioning and use a humidifier
- Avoid medicines that cause dryness, such as some antihistamines, if your doctor agrees
Seek care immediately if you have
- A lymph node or gland that grows and does not go down in weeks
- Purple spots on the legs
- Persistent numbness or tingling
- Shortness of breath or persistent cough
Frequently asked questions
What is Sjögren's syndrome?
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects the glands that produce tears and saliva. It can also involve the joints, lungs, kidneys, nerves and skin. It is much more common in women.
How is Sjögren's syndrome diagnosed?
Antibodies (anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB), tests of tear and saliva production and, in many cases, a minor salivary gland biopsy are used. This biopsy is a simple outpatient procedure performed in the office.
How is Sjögren's syndrome treated?
Artificial tears and saliva substitutes for dryness. Medicines that stimulate saliva, such as pilocarpine. Hydroxychloroquine for joint pain and fatigue, and immunosuppressants when organs are involved.
General information reviewed by Dr. Paul Alejandro Méndez Patarroyo, internist and rheumatologist, Colombian Medical Licence 79554568. It does not replace a medical consultation.