When you’re actively seeking Sjorgen’s Syndrome treatment in your area, you can look to us at Arthritis & Osteoporosis Associates. This condition requires specialized diagnosis and treatment. Our experts are equipped to help you find relief.
In this article, we’ll cover what Sjorgen’s Syndrome is, how it’s caused, what the symptoms look like, and how it can be treated.
What is Sjorgen’s Syndrome?
Sjorgen’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and glands, specifically, ones that are responsible for producing saliva and tears. When these glands are damaged enough, it will make it difficult for the body to produce moisture.
While the syndrome occurs on its own, its onset can also be the result of other autoimmune conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Scleroderma, and Lupus. This condition commonly affects women between the ages of 40 and 60 but could occur at any time.
How is Sjorgen’s Syndrome Caused?
The specific cause isn’t known, but it’s believed that it develops due to a variety of factors including genetics, hormones, and the environment.
People with certain genetic traits can be more susceptible to developing Sjorgen’s Syndrome, as well as other autoimmune diseases. Environmental factors, such as viral infections, could contribute to triggering the immune system to attack healthy tissues.
With this specific condition, the immune system inflames the moisture-producing glands, and in some cases, other organs throughout the body.
Symptoms of Sjorgen’s Syndrome
The symptoms of this condition can vary based on the person. Some affected individuals experience mild symptoms while others can have more severe symptoms.
The most common symptoms include:
- Dry eyes- burning and itching sensations, redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision, eye fatigue.
- Dry mouth- difficulty swallowing/speaking, insatiable thirst, taste changes, increased dental issues, cracked lips, dry throat.
- Joint/muscle issues- stiffness, joint swelling, muscle aches, severe fatigue after physical activity.
- Whole body- constant fatigue, brain fog, low-grade fever.
Other possible symptoms- dry skin, organic issues (kidney, liver, lung), hand numbness, chronic cough.
How is Sjorgen’s Syndrome Diagnosed?
A Sjorgen’s Syndrome diagnosis includes a comprehensive evaluation that can include a review of detailed medical history, a physical exam, blood tests, inflammatory marker testing, eye exam, saliva test, imaging, and even a salivary gland biopsy in certain cases.
We can review each patient and screen them for indications that they are affected by Sjorgen’s Syndrome.
Sjorgen’s Syndrome Treatment
Since there is no specific cure for Sjorgen’s Syndrome, there are various treatments that have been effective at managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and reducing complications. Treatments are tailored to each patient’s disease severity and symptoms.
These Sjorgen’s Syndrome treatments include:
- Dry eye treatment- artificial tears and eye drops and prescription eye mediations.
- Dry mouth treatment- increased hydration, saliva substitutes and medications, specialized oral care.
- Pain and inflammation management- anti-inflammatory medications, DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs), immunosuppressive therapies, lifestyle alterations.
Get Sjorgen’s Syndrome Treatment at Arthritis & Osteoporosis Associates
Whether you’re experiencing the symptoms and need to be diagnosed, or you’re simply looking for Sjorgen’s Syndrome treatment, the team at Arthritis & Osteoporosis Associates can help. We can effectively treat your condition and help you develop a lifestyle routine that helps you find comfort and relief.
Schedule your appointment today*!
*It’s recommended that you consult your primary care professional before seeking alternate treatment.
