Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition that mostly affects the body’s glands that produce moisture, like the salivary and tear-producing glands. In those with Sjogren’s syndrome, the immune system damages the tissues by inducing inflammation and sending nerve signals to certain glands. Sjogren’s syndrome patients are more likely to have complications like cancer, lung disease, and renal issues. It is vital to consult a healthcare provider to treat Sjogren’s syndrome symptoms.

Sjogren’s syndrome causes
Healthcare experts suggest that the following are the potential causes of Sjogren’s syndrome:

Although the exact reason for the immune system attacking the body is unknown, it is believed that some of the genes that are passed on from the parents may play a role. However, this does not guarantee a child’s chance of developing Sjogren’s syndrome.

The fact that more women than men experience Sjogren’s syndrome has led to speculation that the female hormone estrogen may be connected to the disorder.

If anyone has Sjogren’s syndrome, their immune system first attacks the glands that produce saliva and tears. However, it can also harm additional internal parts, such as joints, thyroid, kidneys, liver, lungs, skin, nerves, etc.

Sjogren’s syndrome symptoms
Like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, the syndrome usually coexists with other immune system disorders. Dry eyes and a dry mouth are the two most typical symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome.

The salivary glands in the mouth and the lacrimal glands behind the eyelids are the two main fluid-producing glands attacked by inflammation. Sjogren’s syndrome often affects the mucous membranes and moisture-secreting glands in the mouth and eyes first, which leads to reduced saliva and tear secretion. The glands’ production of saliva, tears, and other fluids is decreased, followed by joint pain (arthritis).

Although Sjogren’s syndrome can occur at any age, most cases are diagnosed in patients over 40. Other symptoms of the condition include:

Dental deterioration and eventual tooth loss
Persistent dry mouth
Persistent dry cough
Trouble speaking
Difficulty eating and swallowing
Enlarged salivary glands
Persistent oral thrush, a fungus in the mouth

The following are the indications and effects of dry eyes:
A feeling in one or both eyes that resembles an irritation brought on by foreign objects like sand or grit.
Drowsy or heavy eyes
Itching
Continuous irritation in the eyes
Enduring dry eyes
Mucous coming out of the eyes
Photophobia, or sensitivity to light that causes eyes to hurt or burn
Itchy and swollen eyelids
Fuzzy vision

The following indications and symptoms can occur when a patient’s immune system targets other body parts:
General fatigue
Brain haze
Strained muscles
Along with stiffness and soreness in the joints, salivary glands between the jaw and ears are swollen and inflamed.
Arm or leg numbness with sporadic pain
Skin biopsy can be used to identify tiny fiber neuropathy.
Lung condition (bronchiolitis, interstitial lung disease, cystic lung disease)
Vasculitis, a condition in which the blood vessels become inflamed, causes the hands to feel uncomfortable, cold, and numb.

Sjogren’s syndrome treatment
Many types of doctors may be involved in treating Sjogren’s syndrome, as the condition may affect various body parts. One’s primary care provider, a dentist, and specialists such as rheumatologists, ophthalmologists, and otolaryngologists, also known as ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors, are involved in the treatment procedure.

Following the signs and symptoms, a physician might advise treatments that:

Reduce inflammation in the eyes
An ophthalmologist could advise prescription eye drops to soothe the inflammation. This works for those with moderate to severe dry eyes. Depending on the severity of the symptom, the doctor may also prescribe artificial tears to soothe inflamed tear glands and stimulate tear production. The doctor may also suggest using punctal plugs so that the tears can be locked on the eyes, keeping them moist. 

Increase saliva production
A doctor may prescribe various modes of treatment to increase saliva production. One of the treatments for dry mouth is taking certain prescription treatments that increase the natural production of saliva. Sweating, stomach ache, flushing, and increased urination are possible side effects. 

A doctor may also prescribe saliva substitutes and mouth-coating gels if the prescribed products do not work. These substitutes are made of artificial substances that can help people who experience mouth dryness. They come in spray, liquid, and swab forms that have already been treated. Since sleep causes the mouth to become dryer, these can be crucial at night.

A dry mouth also increases the risk of dental cavities, infections, and tooth decay. In this case, a doctor may recommend certain toothpaste and mouthwash to treat the condition.

Treating joint and organ problems
A person with Sjogren’s syndrome may also experience joint and muscle pain. A doctor may prescribe pain relievers to ease the pain and discomfort. Specific prescriptions that are effective for rheumatoid arthritis and lupus may also help relieve muscle aches caused by the condition. Immunosuppressants may also be prescribed to slow down the immune system’s response. This helps prevent organ damage.