What is the prognosis of people living with Sjogren’s syndrome?

Having a dry mouth or dry eyes can be quite uncomfortable, but symptoms may lessen over time. With correct therapies and self-care, one can manage symptoms so they do not decrease the quality of life.

Is weight gain associated with Sjogren’s syndrome?

No, Sjogren’s syndrome doesn’t cause weight gain. However, if the patients are on medications (like steroids) used to treat symptoms, that can cause weight gain. Also, if the individuals have conditions like hypothyroidism which may be linked to Sjogren’s syndrome, it can result in an unintended increase in weight.

Does Sjogren’s syndrome affect ears?

Sjogren’s syndrome is like other autoimmune conditions and can affect ears, too. In some cases, the patient may experience discomfort in the ears with hearing loss or with balance.

Is there any relation between hair loss and Sjogren’s syndrome?

Yes, there might be, as a condition known as frontal fibrosing alopecia, is seen in higher numbers in people (mostly women) with autoimmune diseases. This condition causes slow hair loss at the front hairline and sometimes the eyebrows. However, hair loss can be triggered by many other factors, including stress and certain medications.

When to see a doctor?

If any individual experiences severe mouth or gum pain along with itchy eyes, eye pain, or blurred or double vision, then, that can be a signal for Sjogren's syndrome. Consult the doctor immediately to avoid worsening symptoms or the development of any other complications. Patients with swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin should see a doctor immediately as that can indicate enlarged lymph nodes suggestive of lymphoma or another health condition.

Sjogren’s Syndrome

Written By Dr. Sakshi SharmaBDS

Reviewed By Dr. Varun Gupta

MD Pharmacology, MBBS

Last updated on: 27 Sep 2022 | 06:23 PM (IST)

Also known as Sicca syndrome, Mikulicz's disease, Dacryosialoadenopathia atrophicans, Gougerot-Houwer-Sjogren syndrome, Gougerot-Sjogren syndrome, Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, Keratoconjunctivitis sicca-xerostomia, Secreto-inhibitor-xerodermostenosis and Sjogren-Gougerot syndrome

Overview

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that decreases the amount of moisture produced by the eyes and saliva by salivary glands. It is named after Swedish eye doctor Henrik Sjogren, who first described the condition.

The condition is more common in women and most people who are diagnosed are over the age of 40, but it can develop at any age. Sjogren's syndrome is often associated with other immune system disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus (an autoimmune condition causing inflammation of joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs). This syndrome is identified by its two most common symptoms namely dry eyes and dry mouth (also called xerostomia).

Some individuals may be first diagnosed with a rheumatic disorder (such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus) and can later develop the dry eyes and dry mouth (characteristic of Sjogren's syndrome). In general, almost half the people with Sjogren syndrome also have another autoimmune disorder.

The treatment mostly focuses on relieving the symptoms and complications due to dry eyes, dry mouth, and other other symptoms.

What if your eyes do not produce enough moisture?

Every time you blink, your eyes get washed by tears that contain water, oil, and mucus. It keeps your eyes moisturized and lubricated. Know more about the management of dry eyes.

Making healthcareUnderstandable, Accessible & AffordableMade with ❤ by Tata 1mg

Overview

Key Facts

Symptoms

Types

Causes

Risk factors

Diagnosis

Prevention

Celebs affected

Specialist to visit

Treatment

Home-care

Complications

Alternatives therapies

Living with

FAQs

References