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	'''Sjögren's syndrome''' is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks glands that produce moisture, especially the tear and saliva glands. The main symptoms are dry eyes and a dry mouth, but it can also affect joints, skin, nerves, lungs and other organs.

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by dryness of the eyes and mouth. It can also affect other parts of the body, including the salivary glands, joints, skin, and various organs. The condition is named after Dr. Henrik Sjögren, the Swedish ophthalmologist who first described it in 1933.
	It can occur on its own or alongside another autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. It is more common in women and is often diagnosed in adulthood.

== Symptoms ==	== Symptoms ==
The primary symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome include:
	Common symptoms include dry, gritty or burning eyes, a dry mouth, needing water to swallow dry food, dental decay, mouth infections, swollen salivary glands, tiredness and joint or muscle pain.

* Dry Eyes (Xerophthalmia): Persistent dryness, gritty sensation, redness, and sensitivity to light in the eyes.
* Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Reduced saliva production, leading to a dry mouth, difficulty swallowing or speaking, and an increased risk of dental cavities and oral infections.
* Salivary Gland Swelling: Swelling and tenderness of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands in front of the ears.
* Joint Pain and Swelling: Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, similar to symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
* Skin Dryness: Dry skin, particularly on the hands and feet.
* Vaginal Dryness: Dryness and discomfort in the vaginal area.
* Persistent Fatigue: Profound and persistent fatigue, often accompanied by a general feeling of unwellness.
* Other Organ Involvement: Sjögren's syndrome can also affect other organs, such as the lungs, kidneys, liver, and nervous system.
	Some people also develop dry skin, vaginal dryness, persistent cough, reflux, nerve pain, Raynaud's phenomenon, rashes or swelling of glands at the side of the face.

== Causes and Risk Factors ==
The exact cause of Sjögren's syndrome remains unknown. It is believed to result from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Potential risk factors include:
	Symptoms vary. Some people mainly have dryness, while others have more systemic disease.

* Gender: The condition predominantly affects women, with a female-to-male ratio of approximately 9:1.
* Age: Sjögren's syndrome can occur at any age, but it most commonly develops between the ages of 40 and 60.
* Other Autoimmune Conditions: Individuals with other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, have a higher risk of developing Sjögren's syndrome.
	== Causes ==
	Sjögren's syndrome is caused by immune-system activity against moisture-producing glands and sometimes other tissues. The exact trigger is not fully understood. Genes, hormones, infections and other immune conditions may all contribute.

== Diagnosis ==	== Diagnosis ==
Diagnosing Sjögren's syndrome involves a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and specific diagnostic tests. These may include:
	Diagnosis can take time because symptoms overlap with ageing, medicines, dehydration, menopause, anxiety, diabetes and other conditions.

* Eye and Mouth Examinations: Evaluation of eye dryness, measurement of tear production, and examination of salivary gland function.
* Blood Tests: Detection of specific antibodies commonly associated with Sjögren's syndrome, such as anti-SSA (Ro) and anti-SSB (La) antibodies.
* Imaging Tests: Imaging studies, such as salivary gland scintigraphy or ultrasound, may be used to assess salivary gland function and detect abnormalities.
* Biopsy: In some cases, a minor salivary gland biopsy may be performed to evaluate glandular inflammation and confirm the diagnosis.
	Tests may include blood tests for autoantibodies and inflammation, tear production tests, eye staining, saliva tests, ultrasound of salivary glands and, in some cases, a minor salivary-gland biopsy.

== Treatment ==	== Treatment ==
The management of Sjögren's syndrome aims to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include:
	There is no single cure, but treatment can reduce symptoms and prevent complications. Dry eyes may be treated with artificial tears, gels, ointments, eyelid care and eye-clinic review where needed. Dry mouth may be helped by saliva substitutes, sugar-free chewing gum, good dental care and medicines that stimulate saliva in selected patients.

* Artificial Tears and Eye Lubricants: Over-the-counter or prescription eye drops to relieve dryness and improve eye lubrication.
* Saliva Substitutes and Dental Care: Use of saliva substitutes, frequent sips of water, and good oral hygiene practices to manage dry mouth and prevent dental complications.
* Immunosuppressive Medications: Medications such as corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologics may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response.
* Symptom-Specific Treatment: Management of specific symptoms, such as joint pain or vaginal dryness, through medications, physical therapy, or other interventions.
* Lifestyle Modifications: Avoidance of triggers that worsen symptoms, such as dry environments or certain medications, and adopting strategies to manage fatigue and maintain overall health.
	Pain, fatigue and joint symptoms may need medicines, physiotherapy, pacing and management of associated conditions. People with more systemic disease may need specialist rheumatology treatment.

== Prognosis ==
The prognosis for individuals with Sjögren's syndrome varies. While the condition is chronic and may require ongoing management, most people can lead productive lives with appropriate treatment. Regular follow-up care, including monitoring for complications and managing symptoms, is essential to maintain optimal health.
	Good dental and eye care matters because dryness increases the risk of tooth decay, oral infection and eye-surface damage.

	== Complications ==
	Possible complications include dental decay, oral thrush, corneal ulcers, persistent gland swelling, neuropathy, lung disease, kidney involvement and a small increased risk of lymphoma. Ongoing follow-up helps detect problems early.

	== Living With Sjögren's Syndrome ==
	Practical measures include carrying water, avoiding smoke and very dry environments, using lip balm, attending regular dental checks, treating mouth infections early, and reviewing medicines that worsen dryness.

	The condition can be invisible but exhausting. Fatigue and pain can affect work, study and social life even when outward signs are limited.

== See Also ==	== See Also ==
	* [[Autoimmune_Disorders]]
	* [[Rheumatoid_Arthritis]]
	* [[Systemic_Lupus_Erythematosus]]
	* [[Ophthalmology]]

* [[Rheumatoid Arthritis]] - Explore an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic joint inflammation.
* [[Systemic Lupus Erythematosus]] - Learn about a systemic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs.
	== References ==
	* [https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sjogrens-syndrome/ NHS: Sjögren's syndrome]
	* [https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/immune-system/sjogrens-syndrome/ NHS inform: Sjögren's syndrome]
	* [https://www.arthritis-uk.org/information-and-support/understanding-arthritis/conditions/sjoegren-disease/ Arthritis UK: Sjögren disease]
	* [https://academic.oup.com/rheumatology/article/63/4/e109/7584602 British Society for Rheumatology guideline on management of adult Sjögren disease]

	[[Category:Medicine]]
	[[Category:Rheumatology]]
	[[Category:Autoimmune disease]]