Sjogren’s Syndrome Signs and Symptoms

Sjogren’s Syndrome is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder in which the immune system produces autoantibodies that attack the tear, salivary and other moisture-producing glands, causing excessive dryness to the eyes and mucous membranes of the body. Nine out of ten people with Sjogren’s are females between the ages of 40 and 50. Sjogren’s Syndrome often accompanies other autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and scleroderma.  We have put together a list of signs and symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome below.

Also, we have information on diagnosis, helpful books and valuable resources for patients.

The Signs and Symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndjrome are as follows:

• dry eyes and dry mouth
• sensitivity to light, smoke and fumes
• difficulty chewing or swallowing
• recurrent cavities
• sore mouth
• dry cough
• eye pain
• reduced tears
• joint and muscle pain
• morning stiffness
• increased thirst
• nausea and stomach pain
• great fatigue
• enlarged salivary glands
• itchy, sandy feeling in the eyes
• burning sensation in the eyes
• visual disturbance in the eyes
• increased thirst
• frequent infections
• numbness or coldness in the hands and feet

Diagnosis of Sjogren’s Syndrome

The key test for Sjogren’s Syndrome is called the Schirmer test, which measures the level of tears in the eyes.  Other useful tests include tests for anemia, antisalivary duct antibodies, rheumatoid factor, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESRs).

While the majority of cases affect the tear ducts, salivary glands and vagina, other mucous membranes that can become dried out include the windpipe and gastrointestinal tract.

Books for People With Symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome:

What Causes Sjogren’s Syndrome?

• Viral Infections Including Herpes, Retroviruses, Cytomegalovirus, Eptein-Barr, and Herpes Virus Type 6
• Nutritional Deficiencies
• Wearing Contact Lenses
• Smoking Tobacco or Marijuana

Why Detoxification is Important?

If there is one thing that seems to be true, it is that autoimmune disease patients have a toxic body. The more discomfort you are in, the more pain you are feeling, the sicker and more toxic you are. Inflammation and irritation are classic signs of a toxic body. Although environmental toxins are not the only cause of the autoimmune process, it may be what is the root cause of the other factors such as candida, viral or bacterial infections.

Sjogren’s Syndrome Resources

General Patient Resources

• Sjogren’s Syndrome Foundation

Information about the foundation and its membership as well as explanation of this disease, links and news and events.

http://www.sjogrens.org/

• About . com

Information on the cause, diagnosis, symptoms and treatment of Sjogren’s syndrome. Sjogren’s syndrome is a disease characterized by dryness, most commonly of the eyes and mouth.

http://arthritis.about.com/od/sjogrens/Sjogrens_Syndrome_Cause_Diagnosis_Symptoms_Treatment.htm

• Sjogren’s World

A worldwide Internet Community created for those who have Sjogren’s Syndrome. It is a place for all to meet and share experiences and knowledge with others who live with Sjogren’s in order to improve quality of life. The loneliness and isolation that often accompanies living with this debilitating disease need not be.

http://sjogrensworld.org/

• MD Junction

Sjogren’s Syndrome Forums. Discussions, Q&A and friends dealing with Sjogren’s Syndrome.

http://www.mdjunction.com/forums/sjogrens-syndrome-discussions

• Experience Project

Anonymously connect with people who share your experiences– like those who say ‘I Have Sjogren’s Syndrome’. Read hundreds of true stories, share your own story anonymously, get feedback and comments, chat in the discussion forum, help others, meet new friends, and so much more– all free.

http://www.experienceproject.com/groups/Have-Sjogrens-Syndrome/21474

Medical Resources

• Medicine Net . com

Sjogren’s syndrome causes symptoms that include arthritis, dry eyes and mouth. Read about Sjogren’s syndrome treatment , diagnosis, medications, and signs.

http://www.medicinenet.com/sjogrens_syndrome/article.htm

• Mayo Clinic

Comprehensive overview covers symptoms, causes, treatment of this autoimmune disorder.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sjogrens-syndrome/DS00147

• Web MD

Learn about Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that causes symptoms like dry mouth and dry eyes.

http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/arthritis-sjogrens-syndrome

• Medicine Net . com

Sjogren’s syndrome causes symptoms that include arthritis, dry eyes and mouth. Read about Sjogren’s syndrome treatment , diagnosis, medications, and signs.

http://www.medicinenet.com/sjogrens_syndrome/page2.htm