Sjogren’s disease (syndrome) is an immune system disorder identified primarily by a dry mouth and dry eyes. The condition usually accompanies other disorders, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
If someone has Sjogren’s disease, the moisture-secreting glands and mucous membranes within the eyes and mouth get affected first. This results in less saliva and tears.
Typically, people can develop the disease at any age. However, it’s more prominent in people 40 or older. Likewise, women are more likely to experience the condition than men, and treatment focuses more on relieving the symptoms.
Sjogren’s Disease Symptoms
There are two primary symptoms of Sjogren’s Disease. These include:
- Dry Mouth – The mouth can feel full of cotton, which makes it hard to speak and swallow.
- Dry Eyes – The eyes can feel gritty or burn and itch.
Sometimes, people often deal with one or more of these issues:
- Prolonged fatigue
- Persistent dry cough
- Vaginal dryness
- Skin rashes and dry skin
- Swollen salivary glands (especially in front of the ears and behind the jaw)
- Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
Causes of Sjogren’s Disease
Scientists don’t know why people develop Sjogren’s Disease. However, they do understand that it’s an autoimmune disorder. In a sense, the immune system attacks the body’s tissues and cells by mistake.
Though Sjogren’s Disease often affects the mouth and eyes, it can also damage other body parts, including the:
- Nerves
- Skin
- Lungs
- Liver
- Kidneys
- Thyroid
- Joints
Those who have rheumatic disease are more likely to get Sjogren’s syndrome.
Testing Options Available
Because Sjogren’s Disease can mimic other conditions, it’s important for doctors to test for it. There are many options, but the Immco Sjogren’s Diagnostic Test Panel is an ideal solution. It identifies and analyses a comprehensive set of biomarkers to detect the syndrome. Trinity Biotech manufactures the test panel for those working in the healthcare industry.
Understanding Sjogren’s Disease is essential to preparing for and treating the condition. Learn more about it and the testing options available today!