What is Sjogren’s syndrome: We are living in an era, where suffering from diseases is very common and, undoubtedly, people suffer from a lot of problems. If you are someone who is dealing with such an issue, you can understand this statement well. Well, in this article we are discussing Sjogren’s syndrome.
As per the research done, aged people have reported having Sjogren’s syndrome globally and are looking out for options to get the treatment. But still, some people have no clue what is Sjogren’s syndrome.
If you are also unaware of it, keep reading because here we are discussing Sjogren’s syndrome in detail for a better understanding.
What is Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Sjogren’s syndrome is a disorder of the immune system that is identified by dry eyes or dry mouth. It is right to conclude that this condition is an immune system disorder that is also linked with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
When a person is going through such a condition, the mucous membranes and secreting glands of the eyes and mouth show the impact first. In general, it results in a decrease in tears and saliva.
This syndrome can develop at any age, and people older than 40 years of age suffer from it. Women are more prone to this condition as compared to men. It is important to pay attention to the changes happening in the body to get an idea of whether the changes are common or related to any particular problem.
Symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome:
Certain symptoms of sjogren’s syndrome are there that a person needs to understand considering Sjogren’s syndrome and they include:
1. Dry eyes:
The primary symptom of Sjogren’s syndrome is dry eyes. A person experiences burning eyes or itchiness. They have a constant feeling that there is sand in them. But in reality, it is not.
2. Dry mouth:
Dry mouth is also very common in people suffering from Sjogren’s syndrome. They have a feeling that it is full of cotton, which is why they experience difficulty in swallowing or speaking.
Some other conditions that are also linked with Sjogren’s syndrome include the following:
- Constant joint pain accompanied by swelling and stiffness
- constant feeling of fatigue.
- Vaginal dryness
- Skin rashes.
- Dry skin
- Swollen salivary glands
Causes of Sjogren’s Syndrome:
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder and is responsible for attracting healthy body cells and tissues. Still, there is research going on considering the causes, but certain genes are responsible for putting people at the risk of its development. Essentially, it functions as a triggering mechanism, allowing the virus or strain of bacteria to occupy a location in the body and cause harm.
Sjogren’s syndrome is also responsible for damaging other parts of the body, including nerves, the lungs, liver, kidney, thyroid, joints, skin, and so on. It is important to reach out to the doctor as soon as possible to get treatment so that the condition will not get worse.
Risk factors for Sjogren’s Syndrome:
Certain risk factors are also there that are linked with Sjogren’s syndrome, and these include:
- Age: People who are older than 40 years are likely to get it more often as compared to children. But don’t get confused, because in children as well, it is possible.
- Gender: As we have discussed, women are more prone to getting affected by Sjogren’s. But it is also the case with men that the possibility of suffering from exquisite syndrome is high in women.
- Other autoimmune conditions: If a person is dealing with an autoimmune condition, such as arthritis, they are on the verge of experiencing it.
Diagnosis of Sjogren’s Syndrome:
When you approach the doctor to get a diagnosis for this syndrome, they will conduct a certain test and let you know about it. But majorly, the tests related to eyes and mouths that the doctor considered include:
1. Salivary flow test
A salivary flow test is a test that is used to measure the amount of saliva that a person produces in a certain amount of time. If it is less than normal, there are chances that a person is suffering from Sjogren’s.
2. Dry test:
A “dry test” is in consideration to check out the condition of eyes and to understand if there is any “dry spot” or not. If doctors notice a dry spot, they will further test it.
3. Slit lamp
A slit lamp is a kind of magnifying device that a doctor uses to analyze the surface of the eyes. The surface of the eyes will help them decide whether it is dry or working fine.
4. Schirmer’s tear test
Schirmer’s tear test sounds like dryness in the eyes. In this test, the doctor puts more pieces of paper under the lower eyelid and checks how much the eye tears up.
5. Salivary gland biopsy:
A salivary gland biopsy is a test in which a doctor takes a small piece from the salivary gland and further sends it for testing. This helped them to identify the exact condition called lymphocytic infiltrate, which is known as a buildup of white blood cells that appear as bumps.
Treatment for Sjogren’s Syndrome:
When you approach the doctor for treatment, it is important to understand that medication is the last option left with people. Throughout life, a person needs to take medicine to manage the symptoms.
Initially, doctors do not suggest very strong medications, but if the condition is out of reach, there are some other medicines that they consider.
The following are the things that one needs to know about Sjogren’s syndrome: It is important for you to reach out to the doctor promptly to get the treatment you need. If you are looking for a doctor to get information about Sjogren’s syndrome, then visit Jaipur.
Here you can visit Synonym Rheumatology Clinic and fix an appointment with a doctor. Here you will find the best doctor for Sjogren’s syndrome treatment in Jaipur, and for sure, you will be able to get rid of it. Discuss the problem you are going through so a doctor can understand where we have to start treating you.
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Most Asked Questions
Q. 1 How does it affect the person who has Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Ans: Sjogren’s Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks its own moisture-producing glands. It causes dryness in the eyes, mouth, and throat. It also causes joint pain and fatigue. The person who has Sjogren’s Syndrome will experience a lot of discomfort.
Q. 2 What factors can increase the risk of developing Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Ans: There are many factors that can increase the risk of developing Sjogren’s Syndrome. Some of these include genetics, age, sex, smoking history, and medications taken during pregnancy.
Q. 3 Can you be diagnosed with Sjogren’s Syndrome by simply feeling tired all the time or having a dry mouth?
Ans: The diagnosis of Sjogren’s Syndrome doctors do by looking for specific symptoms. A doctor will ask about how often you feel tired, have a dry mouth, and other symptoms. They will also do a physical examination to look for other signs of the condition.
Q. 4 Is there a cure for Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Ans: The cause of Sjogren’s Syndrome is unknown. But it takes place due to an interaction between genetic factors and environmental triggers. The treatment for this condition includes corticosteroids such as prednisone or dexamethasone. But these drugs have many side effects, including weight gain, high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus type 2, osteoporosis, etc.