Sjogren Syndrome: An Overview

Many people have never heard the words Sjogren syndrome. But for an unlucky few, this disease can be incredibly painful as well as aggravating. Sjogren syndrome is an autoimmune disease that attacks the immune system. It causes inflammation and dryness of the eyes, mouth and other tissues in the body. It can also affect the lungs, kidneys, blood vessels and other digestive and nervous systems. Some people experience joint pain and fatigue with this illness. Although this disease can occur by itself, about 50% of the time it occurs along with another autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or scleroderma. This disease effects nearly one million people and tends to occur more frequently in those who are over age 40. Nearly 90% of the people who suffer from sjogren syndrome are women. Some people are forced to use medications that help ease the dry mouth and eyes which accompany this disease. These medications may be used in conjunction with other medications, depending on the circumstances you are facing.

If your Sjogren syndrome is accompanied by inflammation of the joints, blood vessels or other organs, your doctor will prescribe certain medicines called systemic medications. Some of the medications that your doctor may consider, would be anti inflammatory drugs that don't include steroids. Corticosteroids and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs are always another option. For most people the focus of treatment on Sjogren syndrome will be on relieving the dry mouth and gritty, uncomfortable eyes that are symptoms of this illness. There are many over the counter medicines that can be used to relieve these symptoms also. A prescription isn't really needed, but will depend on the severity of the problems you are experiencing. Products that work as artificial saliva don't increase saliva production, but they do relieve the dry mouth symptoms and can be reapplied as often as you need to. Artificial tears that are available over the counter do work to relieve dry eyes. However, the preservatives in these products can be harmful to you if used often over a long period of time. If you find that over the counter treatments just aren't working for you, you may want to consider a physician prescribed medication to treat your symptoms. Restasis is a drop placed in the eyes that suppresses the immunes systems attack on the tear glands. Lacriserts are pellets that are placed in the lower pockets of the lower eyelids, once inserted into the eye, they gently dissolve and keep your eyes lubricated. If your eyes tend to become irritated corticosteroids may be temporarily used to control the irritation. Cevimelene and pilocarpine are both oral medications that are used to control the symptoms of Sjogren by stimulating the natural flow of saliva. There have been some reports that these products do help dry eye symptoms, but currently there is no proof of that and it is not approved by the FDA for the relief of dry eyes.

If you have this condition, it may not be more than a mild nuisance by making you uncomfortable. However it's very important that you treat the symptoms of this disease, as fully functioning glands protect your body from other and sometimes more serious, threats. A lack of saliva can make you more prone to cavities, sinus infections, even tooth loss. Dry nasal passages and a dry throat can make swallowing difficult, your internal organs can be affected as well. Some common home remedies that can help you control the symptoms of Sjogren includes anything that preserves your bodies natural moisture and helps to ease the discomfort of sjogrens syndrome.

If dry mouth is a problem for you, keep a water bottle close at hand and sip throughout the day. Suck on sugar free candy, avoid sitting next to air conditioners and heaters that dry up the moisture your body naturally produces. Use a humidifier at night by your bed. Avoid using drugs that cause dry mouth and remember to always keep your doctor up to date on all medications you've been given. Make a conscious effort to blink rapidly throughout the day. Take a break during the day, cover your eyes with a wet washcloth for about 10 minutes. Studies have shown that eating more fish, which contains Omega 3 fatty acids can sooth dry eyes. Another thing you should consider, is asking your doctor about goggles you can wear that hold in the natural moisture of your eyes and sooth the pain and discomfort of dry eyes. For more information on treating the symptoms of Jorgen's visit www.webmd.com