SJOGREN'S SYNDROME

The condition often accompanies other immune system disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. In Sjogren's syndrome, the mucous membranes and moisture-secreting glands of the eyes and mouth are usually affected first — resulting in decreased tears and saliva.

Although Sjogren's syndrome develop at any age, most people are older than 40 at the time of diagnosis. The condition is much more common in women. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms.

The two main symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome are:

• Dry eyes. The eyes might burn, itch or feel gritty — as if there's sand in them.
• Dry mouth. The mouth might feel like it's full of cotton, making it difficult to swallow or speak.

Some people with Sjogren's syndrome also have one or more of the following:

• Joint pain, swelling and stiffness
• Swollen salivary glands — particularly the set located behind your jaw and in front of your ears
• Skin rashes or dry skin
• Vaginal dryness
• Persistent dry cough
• Prolonged fatigue

  In Sjogren's syndrome, the immune system first targets the glands that make tears and saliva. But it can also damage other parts of your body, such as:

  • Joints
  • Thyroid
  • Kidneys
  • Liver
  • Lungs
  • Skin
    

  Sjogren's syndrome typically occurs in people with one or more known risk factors, including:

  • Age. Sjogren's syndrome is usually diagnosed in people older than 40.
  • Sex. Women are much more likely to have Sjogren's syndrome.
  • Rheumatic disease. It's common for people who have Sjogren's syndrome to also have a rheumatic disease — such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

  The most common complications of Sjogren's syndrome involve the eyes and mouth.

  • Dental cavities. Because saliva helps protect the teeth from the bacteria that cause cavities, people are more prone to developing cavities if the mouth is dry.
  • Yeast infections. People with Sjogren's syndrome are much more likely to develop oral thrush, a yeast infection in the mouth.
  • Vision problems. Dry eyes can lead to light sensitivity, blurred vision and corneal damage.

  Less common complications might affect:

  • Lungs, Kidneys or Liver. Inflammation can cause pneumonia, bronchitis or other problems in the Lungs; lead to problems with Kidney function; and cause hepatitis or cirrhosis in the Liver.
  • Lymph nodes. A small percentage of people with Sjogren's syndrome develop cancer of the lymph nodes (lymphoma).
  • Nerves. Numbness, tingling and burning in the hands and feet might develop (peripheral neuropathy).