CHECK-UP: Sjögren's syndrome causes dryness in a wide range of mucus membranes, writes Marion Kerr
HAVING HAD a problem with my eyes for some time I went to my GP when I started to suffer from a dry mouth as well. He said I might have something called Sjögren's syndrome. Can you tell me a bit more about it?
The condition was named after Henrik Sjögren, a 20th century Swedish eye specialist. Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune condition for which no particular cause has been identified, is more common in women than in men. The condition is thought to result from antibodies which attack the structure of glands causing dryness in a wide range of mucus membranes including those in the eyes, mouth and vagina.
Insufficient saliva produces problems with swallowing and eating and affects the ability to taste and smell. Lack of tears can result in severe dryness causing a dry, scratchy sensation in the eyes which in severe cases can lead to permanent damage to the cornea. Dryness of the vagina can lead to painful intercourse.
Other mucus membranes including the lining of the digestive tract, trachea, lungs and the protective sac surrounding the heart (pericardium) can result in these organs becoming more susceptible to infection. Nerves and other tissues including the joints can also be damaged with one-third of sufferers experiencing joint inflammation.
My symptoms are very mild, so how can I be sure this is what I have?
A wide range of tests is used to diagnose Sjögren's syndrome. These include blood tests to detect antibodies, a filter paper eye test (Schirmer test) and scans or biopsies of glands. The syndrome is commonly associated with other immunological disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, myasthenia gravis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
I am using special eye drops which are helping but what other treatment is available?
There is no cure for the condition but symptoms can be relieved. Dry eye usually responds well to artificial teardrops while a dry mouth can be relieved by moisturising mouth sprays or rinses, good hydration and chewing sugarless gum. Preparations which dry mucus membranes such as decongestants, antihistamines and some
antidepressants may acerbate the symptoms of dry mouth and should be avoided where possible.
Joint symptoms are usually treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. When severe organ damage occurs, treatment with corticosteroids may help.