Health Topics for Skin Health

Department of Dermatology

Department of Internal Medicine: Allergy

Dermatological Cancers

Sjogren's syndrome

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which immune cells attack and destroy the glands that produce tears and saliva. The classic symptoms of the disorder are dry mouth and dry eyes. Sjogren's syndrome may also cause skin, nose, and vaginal dryness, and may affect other organs such as the kidneys, blood vessels, lungs, liver, pancreas, and brain.

The disease occurs most frequently in women between ages 40 to 65. Sjogren's syndrome may occur as a single disorder or it may be associated with other inflammatory diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, or polymyositis.

Sjogren's syndrome may cause the following symptoms:

• dry eyes and mouth
• decreased tear production
• pain in the eyes or a feeling like there is a piece of sand in the eyes
• trouble chewing and swallowing
• sore mouth and dental caries
• vaginal dryness that can cause painful intercourse
• dryness of the upper respiratory system, causing nose bleeds, hoarseness, chronic nonproductive cough, or respiratory infections
• joint inflammation
• skin dryness
• swelling of the salivary glands and the parotid gland, which is near the ear
• hair loss, generalized itching, fatigue, low grade fever, and muscle pain

Sjogren's syndrome is a chronic disorder and treatment is directed at relieving symptoms. If you are diagnosed with this disease, the following may be recommended:

• artificial tears during the day and artificial tears ointment at night
• artificial saliva
• chewing sugarless gum
• ongoing dental care
• stop smoking
• K-Y jelly as a lubricant for vaginal dryness
• use of a cool mist ultrasonic humidifier
• stop smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke
• increased fluid intake
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or aspirin

Medication cautions:

1. Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with food or milk to prevent stomach irritation. Do not give NSAIDs to anyone with asthma or increased risk of bleeding (such as, ulcer disease, following surgery, significant trauma, major dental work, if taking blood thinners [anticoagulants] or have a known bleeding disorder).
2. NSAIDS may relieve joint and muscle discomfort and should be used as directed on the label or advised by your healthcare provider.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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