Sjögren's disease
Sjögren's syndrome
Autoimmune conditionThe immune system targets the glands that make tears and saliva, causing lasting dryness. It can also affect joints, nerves, and other organs.
What happens
Immune cells move into the tear and salivary glands and reduce how much moisture they make. Sjögren's can occur on its own or alongside rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Who gets it
About 9 in 10 people with Sjögren's are women. It's most often diagnosed after 40.
Common signs
- Gritty, burning, dry eyes
- A dry mouth, or needing water to swallow food
- Tooth decay that comes on quickly
- Swollen glands near the jaw
- Vaginal dryness
- Dry skin
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Numbness or tingling
Labs to ask about
- Anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies
- ANA and rheumatoid factor
- Schirmer test (measures tear production)
- A lip biopsy of the small salivary glands in some cases
How it's usually treated
- Lubricating and prescription eye drops
- Medicines that stimulate saliva
- Hydroxychloroquine or immune-modulating medicines when other organs are involved
- Regular dental care to prevent decay
Supportive steps to discuss with your provider
- Sip water through the day and use sugar-free gum or lozenges.
- Use fluoride toothpaste and get frequent dental cleanings.
- Run a humidifier, especially at night.
- Ask your prescriber whether any of your medicines cause dryness, such as antihistamines or some antidepressants.
- Omega-3s may help dry eyes for some people.
See a doctor promptly if you have
- A gland or lump in the neck that stays swollen
- Eye pain or changes in vision
- Numbness or weakness
- You're pregnant or planning pregnancy and have anti-Ro/SSA antibodies, which can affect a baby's heart
Related conditions
Lupus
A whole-body autoimmune disease that can inflame the skin, joints, kidneys, blood, heart, lungs, and brain.
Learn more →Rheumatoid arthritis
The immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing painful swelling that can damage cartilage and bone if untreated.
Learn more →Autoimmune liver disease
Two autoimmune liver diseases that mostly affect women: autoimmune hepatitis attacks liver cells, and primary biliary cholangitis attacks the small bile ducts.
Learn more →
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.