Sjogren syndrome

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Antibodies

Xerostomia-Sjogren syndrome; Keratoconjunctivitis sicca - Sjogren's

The goal is to relieve symptoms. Dry eyes may be treated with artificial tears, eye-lubricating ointments, or cyclosoporine liquid. Tiny plugs can be placed in the tear drainage ducts to help the tears stay on the surface of the eye.

Disease modifying drugs (DMARDs) similar to those used for rheumatoid arthritis may improve the symptoms of Sjogren syndrome. These include tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibiting drugs.

Sipping water throughout the day and chewing sugarless gum may help relieve mouth dryness. Avoid medicines that can cause mouth dryness such as antihistamines and decongestants. Avoid alcohol.

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Talk with your dentist about:

• Solutions to replace minerals in your teeth
• Saliva substitutes
• Drugs that help your salivary glands make more saliva

Frequent brushing and flossing of the teeth, and regular dental visits may prevent severe dental cavities caused by dry mouth.

Arthritis symptoms are commonly treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and physical therapy.

The disease is usually not life-threatening. The outcome depends on what other diseases you have.

There is an increased risk of lymphoma.

• Kidney failure (rare)
• Lymphoma
• Pulmonary infection
• Vasculitis (rare)

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of Sjogren syndrome.

Review Date: 05/31/2009
Reviewed By: Mark James Borigini, MD, Rheumatologist in the Washington, DC Metro area. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).