Sjogren’s Disease

Sjogren’s Disease Latest News

Researchers from Japan recently discovered a self-reinforcing loop between different immune cells that sustains autoimmune responses in patients with Sjögren’s disease.

About Sjogren’s Disease

• Sjögren’s disease (also called Sjögren’s syndrome) is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture-producing glands.
• It typically attacks the glands that produce tears, saliva, and sweat. Other parts of the body may also be affected. 

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Sjogren’s Disease Cause

• The exact cause of Sjögren’s syndrome is unknown, though there seems to be a genetic influence. 
• It is thought that factors such as viral infections, stress, and hormone changes can trigger symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome. 
• Sjogren syndrome can happen at any age. But most people are older than 40 at the time of diagnosis. 
• Ninety percent (90%) of adults diagnosed with Sjögren’s are women.
• Sjogren’s can occur alone or in association with other autoimmune diseases, most commonly lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). 

Sjogren’s Disease Symptoms 

• People with Sjögren’s syndrome can have:
  • dry eyes, which may also feel painful, burning, itchy, or gritty
  • a dry mouth, making it difficult to swallow, speak, or eat dry foods
  • swelling of the glands in the face and neck areas
• Some people with Sjögren’s syndrome also notice:
  • joint pain, swelling and stiffness
  • dry skin or skin rash
  • vaginal dryness
  • persistent dry cough
  • ongoing fatigue
• Sometimes the liver and kidneys are affected. A few people will also develop lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes). 

Sjogren’s Disease Treatment 

• There is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome. 
• Treatment for Sjogren’s disease attempts to relieve the effects of chronic dryness of the mouth and eyes by increasing the lubrication and moisturization of the affected tissues. 

Source: NM