Sjogren’s Syndrome Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Sjogren’s syndrome is a disorder of the immune system characterized by the two most common symptoms, namely dry eyes and dry mouth. This condition generally accompanies other immune system disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
In Sjogren’s syndrome, the mucous membranes and fluid-producing glands of the eyes and mouth are commonly involved, leading to decreased production of tears and saliva. Although Sjogren’s syndrome can occur at any age, most individuals are over 40 years of age at the time of diagnosis.
This condition is more common in women. Treatment of Sjogren’s syndrome is aimed at relieving symptoms.
Symptoms
The two main signs and symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome are:
- Dry eyes The eyes may itch, burn, or feel stuffy like they have dust or grit in them.
- Dry mouth. The mouth cavity can feel like it is full of cotton, which makes it difficult for a person to swallow or speak.
Some individuals with Sjogren’s syndrome may also experience one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
- Pain, swelling, or stiffness in the joints
- Swelling of the salivary glands, especially those located behind the jaw and next to the ear
- Skin rash or dry skin
- Vaginal dryness
- Persistent dry cough
- Prolonged feeling of fatigue
Reason
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder, in which the body’s immune system attacks the body’s own cells and tissues. Experts have not been able to determine exactly why some individuals experience Sjogren’s syndrome.
However, certain genes can increase a person’s risk of experiencing this condition. In addition, it is thought that precipitating mechanisms, such as infection by certain types of viruses or bacteria, are also involved in the development of this disorder.
In Sjogren’s syndrome, the body’s immune system first attacks the glands that produce tears and saliva. However, this condition can also attack other parts of the body, such as:
- Joint
- Thyroid
- Kidney
- Heart
- Paru-paru
- Leather
- Nerves
Certain risk factors are associated with Sjogren’s syndrome, including:
- Age. Sjogren’s syndrome is generally diagnosed in individuals who are over 40 years of age.
- Gender. Women have a higher chance of developing Sjogren’s syndrome.
- Rheumatic disease. Individuals who have rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, have a higher chance of developing Sjogren’s syndrome.
Diagnosis
Because signs and symptoms can vary for each individual, Sjogren’s syndrome can be difficult to diagnose. The side effects of some medications can mimic the signs and symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome.
Several tests can be performed to help determine the diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome, such as:
- Blood test. Blood tests may be performed to evaluate the levels of various types of blood cells, the presence of antibodies that are common in Sjogren’s syndrome, the presence of inflammatory conditions, and the presence of abnormalities in the liver or kidneys.
- Eye exam. The dryness of the eyes can be evaluated using an examination called the Schirmer tear test. This test uses a small filter paper placed on the lower eyelid to measure tear production.
- Imaging. Several imaging tests may be performed to check the function of the salivary glands, including a sialogram (an examination using x-rays and a dye that is injected into the salivary glands to see the flow of saliva in the oral cavity), and salivary scintigraphy (a nuclear medicine examination that involves injecting a radioactive isotope into a vein to see how fast it travels to all the salivary glands in the body ) .
- Biopsy. The doctor may also perform a lip biopsy to detect the presence of inflammatory cells which can help diagnose Sjogren’s syndrome.
Treatment
Treatment of Sjogren’s syndrome depends on the part of the body involved. Many individuals treat dry eyes and dry mouth by using eye drops and consuming more water. However, some people with this condition need certain medications or even surgical procedures.
Some of the treatment options that can be done are:
- Treatment. Depending on the symptoms experienced, the doctor can prescribe medications that aim to reduce inflammation in the eye, increase saliva production, treat certain complications, or treat the symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome as a whole.
- Surgery. Minor procedures on the tear glands can help overcome dry eye complaints, which involve the use of collagen or silicone.
Prevention
Because the cause of Sjogren’s syndrome is not known with certainty, there are no proven prevention methods that completely prevent this condition. However, some things are known to prevent worsening of symptoms, such as:
- Increase air humidity. Increasing air humidity and reducing exposure to wind can reduce the likelihood of dry eyes and dry mouth.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking can irritate and make the mouth drier.
Maintain fluid intake. Consuming the recommended amount of water (8 to 12 250-milliliter glasses per day) can prevent dry mouth. In addition, avoid consuming excess alcohol or coffee because they can also make your mouth dry.