Sjogrens Syndrome

Welcome to the Sjogren’s Syndrome Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group. Our specialized clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the body’s moisture-producing glands. We offer expert diagnosis, personalized treatment, and ongoing support to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

What is Sjogren’s Syndrome?

Sjogren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the moisture-producing glands, causing dryness in the mouth and eyes. The condition can also affect other organs and systems, leading to a range of systemic symptoms. Sjogren’s syndrome can be classified as:

• Primary Sjögren’s syndrome: Occurs on its own, without an associated autoimmune disease.
• Secondary Sjögren’s syndrome: Develops alongside other autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

Sjogren’s Syndrome Symptoms

Common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome include:

• Dry Eyes: Persistent dryness, irritation, burning, or a gritty sensation in the eyes.
• Dry Mouth: Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or tasting, along with an increased risk of dental issues such as cavities and infections.
• Joint Pain: Discomfort, stiffness and inflammation in the joints.
• Fatigue: Chronic tiredness and reduced energy levels.
• Swollen Glands: Enlargement of salivary glands, leading to pain, tenderness and increased dryness.

Sjogren’s Syndrome Diagnosis

A thorough diagnosis involves:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: A thorough review of symptoms and a physical assessment to check for signs of dryness and gland involvement.

• Blood Tests: To check for specific antibodies associated with Sjogren’s syndrome, such as anti-SSA (Ro) and anti-SSB (La), as well as markers of inflammation.

• Eye Exams: To assess dryness and damage to the eyes.
• Salivary Gland Biopsy: A small sample of salivary gland tissue (usually from the lower lip) is examined for inflammation to confirm the diagnosis.
• Imaging Studies: Ultrasound or other imaging techniques to evaluate the extent of salivary glandular involvement.

Causes of Sjogren’s Syndrome

The exact cause of Sjogren’s syndrome is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors.

• Autoimmune Response: The immune system mistakenly targets and damages moisture-producing glands.

• Genetic Predisposition: A genetic component may increase susceptibility to the condition.
• Environmental Triggers: Certain infections, hormonal changes, or environmental factors (like viruses, stress, or exposure to toxins)  may trigger or exacerbate Sjogren’s syndrome in people who are already genetically at risk.

Sjogren’s Syndrome Treatments

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to manage and alleviate the symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome:

• Medications:
  • Artificial Tears: Help keep your eyes lubricated and relieve dryness.
  • Saliva Substitutes: Moisturize the mouth and ease difficulty with speaking or swallowing.
  • Immunomodulators: Reduce immune system activity to control inflammation.

• Lifestyle and Home Remedies:

• • Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to maintain moisture levels in the body.

• Good oral care: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups to prevent cavities and oral infections

Moisturizers: Using skin and lip moisturizers and nasal saline sprays to prevent dryness.

• Physical Therapy: Helps manage joint pain and improve mobility if arthritis is present.
• Dietary Adjustments: Eating a healthy diet to support overall health and reduce inflammation.

Care and Management Tips for Sjogren’s Syndrome

Living with Sjogren’s syndrome requires ongoing care to maintain your health and prevent complications. Here are some essential management tips:

• Prioritize dental care: Visit your dentist regularly to prevent tooth decay and cavities caused by dry mouth.
• Schedule routine eye exams: An ophthalmologist can monitor for corneal damage, infections, and other eye-related complications.
• Stay on top of rheumatology care: Regular follow-ups with a rheumatologist help manage symptoms and detect potential complications early.

Last update date: 08-08-2024

Written by

Dr. Nathalie E. Chalhoub +

Consultant Rheumatologist

Dr. Nathalie E. Chalhoub is an American Board-Certified Consultant Rheumatologist who has worked in the USA, UAE and Lebanon.