What is Sjogren's Syndrome?
Sjögren's syndrome is an
autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks
its own moisture producing glands. Sjögren's is one of the most
prevalent autoimmune disorders, striking as many as 4,000,000 Americans.
Nine out of ten patients are women. The average age of onset is late 40s
although Sjögren's occurs in all age groups in both women and men.
About 50% of the time Sjögren's syndrome occurs alone, and
50% of the time it occurs in the presence of another connective tissue
disease. The four most common diagnoses that co-exsist with Sjögren's
syndrome are Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Lupus, Systemic Sclerosis
(scleroderma) and Polymyositis/Dermatomyositis. Sometimes researchers refer
to the first type as "Primary Sjögren's" and the second as "Secondary
Sjögren's." All instances of Sjögren's syndrome are systemic, affecting the
entire body.
The hallmark symptoms are
dry eyes and
dry mouth. Sjögren's may also cause dryness of
other
organs, affecting the kidneys, GI tract, blood
vessels, lung, liver, pancreas, and the central nervous system. Many
patients experience debilitating fatigue and joint pain. Symptoms can
plateau, worsen, or go into remission. While some people experience mild
symptoms, others suffer debilitating symptoms that greatly impair their
quality of life.
FAQ about Sjogrens syndrome:
Is it easy to
diagnose Sjögren's syndrome?
Sjögren's syndrome often is undiagnosed or
misdiagnosed. The symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome may overlap or "mimic"
those of other diseases including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis,
fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and multiple sclerosis. Because
all symptoms are not always present at the same time and Sjögren's can
involve several body systems, physicians and dentists sometimes treat
each symptom individually and do not recognize that a systemic disease
is present. The average time from onset of symptoms to
diagnosis is over six years.
Is there a cure?
Not yet. But with your help, there will be.
For more information please visit the Sjogren's Syndrome
Foundation website
www.sjogrens.org
