Sjgren’s syndrome
In this page, you will find everything you are looking for regarding Sjgren’s syndrome.
What is Sjgren’s syndrome?
- Sjgren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects parts of the body that produce fluids, such as tears and saliva. It is a chronic condition that can impact the patient’s daily life and usually begins in people aged between 40 and 60. It is more common in women than in men. Sjgren’s syndrome is classified into two types:
- Primary Sjgren’s syndrome: develops independently of any other health condition and is not caused by other diseases.
Secondary Sjgren’s syndrome: occurs when another health condition causes (or triggers) Sjgren’s syndrome.
- What are the symptoms of Sjgren’s syndrome?
- Dry eyes and mouth.
- Vaginal dryness.
- Dry skin.
- Muscle and joint pain.
- Swelling between the jaws and ears (swelling of the salivary glands).
- Fatigue and exhaustion.
Skin rash, especially after sun exposure.
What are the causes of Sjgren’s syndrome?
The exact cause of Sjgren’s syndrome is unknown, but it often occurs due to a disorder in the immune system known as an autoimmune condition, where the body attacks its own tissues. The syndrome may also cause other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythematosus.
What are the methods of diagnosing Sjgren’s syndrome?
- The doctor takes a medical history and performs a clinical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
- Blood tests.
- Eye examinations.
- A lip biopsy, where a small piece of tissue from inside the lip is taken and examined under a microscope.
Saliva test, where the patient spits as much as possible into a cup over five minutes, and then the amount is measured or weighed.
What are the methods of treating Sjgren’s syndrome?
- There is essentially no specific cure for Sjgren’s syndrome, but symptoms may be treated through several procedures, or as needed, which may include the following:
- Using eye drops that help keep the eyes moist.
- Using sprays that maintain mouth moisture.
- Using medications that help produce more tears and saliva to relieve dryness.
Using creams to continuously moisturize the skin.
What are the methods to prevent Sjgren’s syndrome?
- Early diagnosis and proper treatment can improve symptoms and prevent serious complications associated with the disease. There are ways that may help avoid complications, including:
- Avoid dry, smoky, or stormy environments, as these conditions may increase dryness of the eyes and mouth.
- Limit reading or screen time for long periods, such as watching TV or using electronic devices, as continuous focus can reduce blinking and increase dryness.
Maintain good oral and dental hygiene regularly to prevent tooth decay and gum problems associated with dry mouth.
What are the complications of Sjgren’s syndrome?
- Sjgren’s syndrome can sometimes cause additional problemsor be associated with other conditions, including:
- Eye problems; severe dryness, if left untreated, may cause damage to thefront layer of the eye over time, leading to permanent vision problems.
- Lung problems, such as lung infections, wideningof the airways (bronchiectasis), and pulmonary fibrosis.
- Pregnancy complications: if a woman has certain types of antibodies (sometimes found in people with Sjgren’s syndrome), some complications may occurin the fetus, such as a rash on the baby that lasts for weeks and heart problems in the baby.
Cancer: the risk of developing Hodgkin’s lymphoma increases in people with Sjgren’s syndrome.
When should you consult a doctor?
It is advisable to see a doctor if a person is experiencing any Sjgren’s syndrome symptoms that do not disappear or cause discomfort, as many things can cause similar symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does smoking affect Sjgren’s syndrome?
Yes, smoking can worsen the symptoms of Sjgren’s syndrome and increase the risk of complications, especially those affecting the lungs.
Is Sjgren’s Syndrome contagious or infectious?
No, Sjgren’s syndrome is not an infectious disease caused by bacterial or viral infection; it is a condition resulting from a malfunction in the immune system.
Does Sjgren’s syndrome lead to complications such as yeast infection, causing oral thrush?
Yes, Sjgren’s syndrome can increase the risk of fungal infections like oral thrush due to dry mouth.
Does Sjgren’s syndrome cause complications of tooth decay problems?
Yes, people with Sjgren’s syndrome are at increased risk of tooth decay. Therefore, it is recommended to brush and floss after meals and to visit the dentist at least twice a year.
Does Sjgren’s syndrome cause nerve problems?
