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About Sjögren’s Disease
Sjögren’s Disease is an autoimmune condition that causes pain and swelling of the joints. The immune systems role is to fight infection to keep you healthy, but sometimes your immune system can attack your own healthy tissues by mistake.
This results in abnormal dryness of the mouth, eyes and/or other tissues. Around half the people who have Sjögren’s Disease also have some form of arthritis (conditions affecting the joints, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis). This is known as secondary Sjögren’s Disease. Primary Sjögren’s Disease occurs in people who do not have one of these forms of arthritis.
Most people with the condition are able to live normal lives without any serious complications. There can be an increased risk for infections in and around the eyes and for problems with the teeth. This is a result of the long-term reduction in tears and saliva. Many people experience fatigue (tiredness), muscle and joint pains, and painful swelling of the salivary glands.
What causes Sjögren’s Disease?
Researchers aren’t sure why people develop Sjögren’s Disease. It is believed to be the result of genetic factors and/or possible viral infections, which activate the immune system. This is not yet confirmed in research.
How is Sjögren’s Disease diagnosed
A GP generally will perform a physical exam, take a medical history, order blood tests and any relevant imaging then refer you to a Rheumatologist.
Physical exam: looking at joints and skin, listening to the lungs, feeling the abdomen; examining the eyes.
Medical history: asking about symptoms, what makes them worse or better, when they started and any family history.
Blood tests: Inflammatory markers: C-Reactive Protein (CRP); Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR); Antibody screening: Rheumatoid Factor (RF); Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP).
Schirmer’s Test: which involves using a strip of blotting paper to measure whether the eye produces enough tears to keep it moist.
Imaging tests: ultrasound.
What are flares?
A flare is a period when Sjögren’s Disease symptoms worsen. This can be the result of triggers such as overexertion, stress, infection or poor sleep or the natural progression of the disease. Some triggers may be obvious. Flares can vary in intensity, duration and frequency, but they’re usually reversible – if treated promptly.
If your symptoms are severe or last for more than a few days then contact your doctor, who can prescribe additional medications or alter your regular medications until the flare subsides.
Most common symptoms of Sjögren’s Disease?
- Concentration/memory-loss, “brain fog”, headaches
- Dry eyes
- Dry nose
- Dry mouth, mouth sores, difficulty with chewing, speech, taste
- Swollen, painful parotid/salivary glands
- Difficulty swallowing, heartburn
- Profound fatigue
- Dry skin, skin sensitivity to UV light and heat, rashes
- Arthritis, joint/muscle pain
- Vaginal dryness
How is SjA¶gren’s Disease managed?
Medicines: Modern medicines for Sjögren’s can reduce inflammation.
Eye Health: Regular review with optometrist/ophthalmologist. Using lubricating eye-drops and other medications as prescribed.
Oral Health: Avoid foods or fluids that trigger symptoms. Regular sips of water or use artificial saliva sprays, lozenges or rinses. Regular review with your dentist. See a TMJ clinic for dysfunction of the jaw.
Skin Health: apply moisturisers for dry skin, use a humidifier, avoid dry environments and protect your skin from the sun.
Lifestyle: get some exercise every day. You can also play an active role by not smoking, reducing stress, and eating a healthy diet.
Who can help?
A Physiotherapist can assess, diagnose, and treat conditions that affect movement and pain. Exercise Physiologist can assess, plan, and implement exercise programs to help manage PEM.
Occupational Therapist can help you learn pacing techniques to do everyday activities.
Find a support group to share and learn from others living with PEM.