Treatment Details
Sjogrens Syndrome
Overview
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.
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.
Symptoms of Sjogrens Syndrome
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Diagnosis of Sjogrens Syndrome
Diagnosis can be challenging. Symptoms can mimic side effects of medications or other illnesses.
Tests for Diagnosis:
Blood Test
Eye test
Imaging test
Biopsy
Tests for Diagnosis:
Blood Test
Eye test
Imaging test
Biopsy
Causes of Sjogrens 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
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
Treatment Options / Stages of Sjogrens Syndrome
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
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
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.
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.
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