10 Symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that impacts the body’s natural defense system. Instead of white blood cells helping to combat infections, these defenders essentially turn against the body, causing damage to the cells in the salivary and tear glands. The severity of the condition varies greatly among individuals. In its most extreme form, Sjogren’s syndrome can significantly diminish a person’s quality of life, while milder cases may be more of an annoyance than a debilitating condition. Approximately four million people in the United States are affected by this syndrome, with women accounting for 90% of those cases.

Experiencing Dry Eyes

Dry eyes rank among the most prominent symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome. This occurs when inflammation and damage affect the tear glands, causing a reduction in tear production. Consequently, individuals may experience stinging or itching sensations in their eyes, often likened to the feeling of having sand in them. Additionally, redness and swelling of the eyelids are common, as well as blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light for some individuals.

Persistent Dry Mouth

A dry mouth is yet another prevalent symptom of Sjogren’s Syndrome, arising from similar factors that cause dry eyes. This condition not only inflames the tear glands, reducing tear production, but also targets the saliva glands, inflaming and ultimately destroying them. This results in dry mouth and lips, which may feel different from the sensation experienced when not drinking enough water on a hot day. Individuals may find their tongue sticking to the roof of their mouth or appearing unusually red. Some might even notice hoarseness and changes in the way foods taste. It is important to note that there are several medical causes for dry mouth, including diabetes, so professional evaluation is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Struggling with Dental Health Problems

Individuals suffering from Sjogren’s syndrome frequently experience significant dental health challenges. Saliva not only aids in the digestion of food but also contains antimicrobial agents that protect teeth from decay. Insufficient saliva production can lead to various dental issues. In particular, those with this condition often have teeth that decay faster than healthy individuals and are more susceptible to receding gums, oral thrush, and mouth ulcers. Oral thrush infections are also more likely to occur. Consequently, dentists often play a crucial role in diagnosing Sjogren’s syndrome.

Suffering from Joint and Muscle Pain

Joint and muscle pain associated with Sjogren’s syndrome can be challenging to differentiate from the pain experienced by individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, making diagnosis a complex process. Research indicates that it can take up to three years for doctors to confidently determine whether a patient has Sjogren’s syndrome or a more prevalent health issue like arthritis. Additionally, the syndrome sometimes coexists with a second autoimmune disease, further complicating the diagnostic process.

Dealing with Swollen Glands

Gland inflammation is a hallmark symptom of Sjogren’s syndrome, resulting in swelling in various areas of the body. Medical professionals often look for swollen glands around the neck, but they can also appear on the face, armpits, and groin. Additionally, dentists may observe this swelling in the parotid glands, which are located on both sides of the mouth and in front of the ears.

Running a Persistent Fever

As the disease progresses, it may cause inflammation in vital organs such as the kidneys, heart, and liver, potentially leading to low-grade fevers and night sweats. However, these symptoms are not exclusive to Sjogren’s syndrome and could indicate a variety of other conditions. While they signal to doctors that a patient is unwell, they do not necessarily point to a Sjogren’s diagnosis.

Coping with Chronic Fatigue

Sjogren’s syndrome often causes individuals to experience persistent physical fatigue, making it difficult to perform everyday activities. This symptom can be long-lasting or intermittent, and may also be accompanied by difficulty concentrating, whether directly related to the fatigue or as a separate issue.

Enduring a Nuisance Dry Cough

A dry cough is another common symptom of Sjogren’s syndrome, which can worsen in the presence of excess dust or irritants in the air, as well as during cold weather. Even spending time in an air-conditioned room may trigger this persistent cough.

Encountering Breathing Difficulties

As individuals age, it’s natural to occasionally experience shortness of breath. However, this could also be a symptom of Sjogren’s syndrome. Breathing difficulties are common in various conditions, which can delay the diagnosis of Sjogren’s syndrome as doctors work to rule out other potential causes.

Facing Unexpected Weight Loss

While unexpected weight gain often grabs our attention, unexplained weight loss is also a sign of potential health issues. Sjogren’s syndrome, a condition that can cause sudden weight loss, occurs when the body works tirelessly to combat illnesses that a healthy immune system would easily fend off. If you experience unexplained weight loss, it’s important to seek medical attention to ensure your health remains on track.