What is Sjögren’s syndrome?
This is a disorder where the body’s immune system attacks glands which produce moisture.
What causes Sjögren’s syndrome?
There is no known cause for this disorder.
Who is more likely to develop Sjögren’s syndrome?
Women are significantly more likely to develop this autoimmune disorder. It has also been found that those with other autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are also more likely to develop Sjögren’s syndrome.
What are the symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome?
You can tell if you have Sjögren’s syndrome if you have dry eyes, a dry mouth, joint pain, fatigue, dry skin, and swollen salivary glands. If you are showing any of these symptoms, see your physician for a professional diagnosis.
What does Sjögren’s syndrome affect?
This disorder can damage several parts of the body, including the eyes, mouth, nerves, joints, thyroid, skin, lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas, blood vessels, etc.
How is oral health affected by Sjögren’s syndrome?
Saliva helps rebuild teeth, prevent tooth decay, fight disease, reduce bad breathe, and also aid in chewing, swallowing, and speaking. When saliva is reduced because of Sjögren’s syndrome, problems can develop like the ones covered in the next question.
What complications can Sjögren’s syndrome cause?
Sjögren’s syndrome can cause complications to develop such as tooth decay, yeast infections, and vision problems. More rare problems that can occur include numb or tingling nerves; problems with the lungs, kidneys, and liver; and even the development of cancer in the lymph nodes.
How is Sjögren’s syndrome treated?
Since there is no known cause, the most a dentist or physician can do for your Sjögren’s syndrome is treat the symptoms. A dentist may recommend treating a dry mouth by drinking more water, chewing sugar-free gum, or using a saliva substitute.
