Sjögren’s syndrome is a disease that disrupts the body’s natural balance. However, Sjögren’s syndrome is also a condition that can be controlled with appropriate treatment and management. However, patients can relieve Sjögren’s syndrome symptoms and optimize their quality of life with regular medical follow-up. Additionally, raising awareness about Sjögren’s syndrome in the community can help individuals living with the disease find understanding and support.
What is Sjögren’s syndrome?
In autoimmune diseases, the immune system begins to attack the body’s own tissues. At this point, the question “What does Sjögren’s disease mean?” We can answer the question as follows:
Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects the lacrimal and salivary glands. However, in Sjögren’s syndrome, the immune system destroys the tear and salivary glands. Additionally, Sjögren’s syndrome is more common in women than men. This syndrome usually occurs in people over the age of 40.
“What causes Sjögren’s disease?” It is difficult to give a clear answer to the question. The cause of Sjögren’s syndrome is not fully understood. However, it is thought that the immune system is affected by genetic and environmental factors.
What are the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome?
Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that generally begins with dryness in the eyes and mouth and affects other glands over time. However, Sjögren’s syndrome symptoms may vary from individual to individual. It is possible to list the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome as follows:
- dry eyes
- dry mouth
- Joint pain and swelling
- Tiredness
- Drying, cracking and bruising on the skin
- Breathing problems, postnasal drip and cough
- Vaginal dryness in women
- Gum and teeth problems
How is Sjögren’s syndrome treated?
Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic disease whose symptoms usually increase over time. Diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome and treatment of Sjögren’s syndrome are generally made by a rheumatologist. Treatment of Sjögren’s syndrome may also require a multidisciplinary approach. Early diagnosis is of great importance in terms of relieving Sjögren’s syndrome symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life. On the other hand, Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic disease that cannot currently be fully treated. However, some precautions can be taken for Sjögren’s syndrome:
- Artificial tear drops can be used to relieve dry eyes.
- Special mouthwashes or artificial saliva preparations may be recommended to reduce dry mouth.
- Some medications can also be used with a doctor’s prescription.
- Lifestyle changes can be made to relieve systemic symptoms such as fatigue and insomnia.
- Regular dentist check-ups, oral hygiene and eye examinations are important to monitor the effects of the disease on dental and eye health.
- Hormone therapy may be considered to relieve symptoms of vaginal dryness due to hormonal changes in women.
- Precautions that are thought to be appropriate for complications such as osteoporosis (bone loss) can be taken with calcium and vitamin D supplements.
Is Sjögren’s syndrome a dangerous disease?
Sjögren’s syndrome is generally not a life-threatening disease. However, it is a chronic and lifelong autoimmune disease. The course of Sjögren’s syndrome may vary from person to person, and symptoms may worsen or ease over time. This condition, Sjögren’s syndrome, depends on the individual’s general health status, immune system response, and response to treatment.
