An Overview of Sjogren’s Syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease determined by the two chief signs of dry mucous membranes of the eyes and the oral cavity.

The condition is known to be associated with other immune system diseases like Rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus among others. In Sjogren’s syndrome, symptoms mainly affect the mucus membrane and moisture-producing glands in your eyes and mouth, which are the first to experience a decrease in tear and saliva production.

While you can get Sjogren’s syndrome at any age, recent data indicates something like 90% of people are diagnosed with the condition at 40 and above. The condition is much more prevalent in women individuals. Management is primarily concerned with the alleviation of symptoms.

Types of Sjogren’s Syndrome

Healthcare providers classify Sjogren’s syndrome into two types:

• Primary Sjogren’s syndrome: develops on its own.
• Secondary Sjogren’s syndrome: is triggered by another illness.

What Causes Sjogren’s Syndrome?

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease. Doctors and scientists do not know how or why your immune system decodes your glands, leading to Sjogren’s syndrome.

Viral infections that can trigger secondary Sjogren’s syndrome include:

• Hepatitis C
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
• Epstein-Barr virus
• Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV–I)
• COVID-19

Autoimmune diseases related to Sjogren’s syndrome:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Lupus

Factors that affect the cost of Sjogren’s Syndrome Treatment:

• Kind of Treatment Required
• Hospital or clinic’s location
• Medication costs
• Patient Condition
• Duration of treatment
• The expertise and experience of medical professionals

How is Sjogren’s Syndrome Diagnosed and Treated?

Diagnosis can be challenging. Symptoms can mimic side effects of medications or other illnesses.

Tests for Diagnosis:

• Blood Test
• Eye test
• Imaging test
• Biopsy

Treatments based on symptoms:

• Dry eyes:

  • Over-the-counter eyedrops
  • Prescription eyedrops: lifitegrast (Xiidra), cyclosporine (Restasis)

• Dry mouth:

  • Hydration and saliva-promoting medications: cevimeline (Evoxac), pilocarpine (Salagen)
  • Side effects: sweating, flushing, stomach pain, increased urination

• Complications:

  • NSAIDs and arthritis meds for joint pain
  • Antifungals for oral yeast infections

• Systemic symptoms:

  • Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)
  • Methotrexate (Trexall)

• Surgery:

  • Punctal occlusion: seals tear ducts using silicone or collagen plugs

The Most Important Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there any adverse effects?
A: Medications like pilocarpine may cause flushing, urination, headaches, sweating, and stomach pain.

Q: Who is not qualified to receive the therapy?
A: People experiencing temporary dryness not caused by Sjogren’s may manage with moisturizers and hydration without medical intervention.

Q: How much time does recovery take?
A: Recovery varies. On average, it may take 8 months to a year. Surgical recovery may take longer.

Q: Are the treatment’s effects long-lasting?
A: There is no known cure. Continuous treatment and prevention of dryness are essential.