What is Sjögren’s Syndrome and What are Effective Treatments?
Sjögren’s syndrome is a disorder of the immune system that primarily affects the body’s moisture-producing glands. In simpler terms, the immune system inadvertently attacks glands responsible for producing saliva and tears. This can lead to dry eyes, dry mouth, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Although Sjögren’s can occur on its own, it’s often linked with other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. While there is sadly no cure, there are Sjögren’s syndrome treatments focus on relieving symptoms and preventing complications.
Symptoms of Sjögren’s Syndrome
Symptoms can vary from patient to patient, but the most common symptoms of Sjögren’s Syndrome include a dry mouth, where you may feel constantly thirsty, have trouble swallowing, or find it hard to talk.
You might also experience dry eyes, a sensation that could feel like burning or having sand is in your eyes. Some people also experience swollen salivary glands, mostly around the jawbone and in front of your ears.
Other common symptoms are joint stiffness, pain, and fatigue. In some cases, people experience pain and swelling in their joints along with ongoing fatigue. Less common symptoms include skin rashes, dry skin, and even issues with the kidneys, lungs, or nervous system.
Effective Treatments for Sjögren’s Syndrome
Below are some effective approaches to managing Sjögren’s syndrome.
Lifestyle Changes and Home Remedies for Sjögren’s Syndrome
Simple lifestyle adjustments can go a long way in improving daily comfort. Staying hydrated by drinking water regularly helps ease dry mouth symptoms. Using a humidifier at home can help add moisture to the air, reducing eye and mouth dryness. It’s also best to avoid or limit caffeine and alcohol, as these can exacerbate dryness.
Medications
Several medications can help manage Sjögren’s symptoms and prevent complications, including artificial tears and saliva substitutes. Over-the-counter eye drops and mouth gels can provide temporary relief for dryness.
Some drugs stimulate saliva production or help reduce inflammation. For instance, prescription medications like pilocarpine or cevimeline can increase saliva and tear production. In more severe cases, drugs that suppress the immune system, such as hydroxychloroquine or methotrexate, might be prescribed to manage joint pain and other systemic symptoms.
Medical Procedures for Sjögren’s Syndrome
For patients with severe dry eyes, more advanced treatments may be necessary. Tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts called punctal plugs are sometimes used to help retain moisture on the eye surface. Rarely, minor surgical interventions are recommended for gland-related complications.
Managing Complications of Sjögren’s Syndrome
Since Sjögren’s can affect more than just your eyes and mouth, it’s important to watch for potential complications. A dry mouth can lead to more cavities and gum disease, so regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are crucial.
Dry eyes can increase the risk of eye infections, so using lubricating eye drops as prescribed is essential. In rare cases, Sjögren’s can affect the lungs, kidneys, or liver, requiring specialized care.
Make an Appointment to Discuss Sjögren’s Syndrome Treatments
While Sjögren’s syndrome can be challenging, many patients lead full, active lives with the right management plan. At Advanced Rheumatology of Houston, our experienced, board-certified rheumatologists can develop a treatment plan tailored just for you.
Don’t put up with painful, irritating symptoms – schedule your appointment today to find relief from Sjögren’s Syndrome.