{"id":14564,"date":"2020-04-01T06:26:30","date_gmt":"2020-04-01T06:26:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/?p=14564"},"modified":"2021-05-07T14:41:54","modified_gmt":"2021-05-07T14:41:54","slug":"14-frequent-symptoms-of-sjogrens-disease","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/14-frequent-symptoms-of-sjogrens-disease\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Frequent Symptoms of Sjogren\u2019s Disease"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Many people have never heard of Sjogren\u2019s Disease, but it is not that rare; it is estimated that around 3% of the population may develop this autoimmune disorder that affects glands that secrete moisture, such as tear ducts and saliva. The cause is often genetic or the condition can result from exposure to viruses or bacteria. It often arises in connection with the Epstein-Barr virus, HIV or along with rheumatoid arthritis. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first symptoms usually are dryness in the mouth and the eyes, but there can be many other signs of this illness. There is no cure for Sjogren\u2019s disease, but there are many ways of treating uncomfortable symptoms, such as eye drops, and in some cases, saliva replacement. The majority of those who contract this disease are women over 40. A combination of the following symptoms may require a test for Sjogren\u2019s disease. 
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1. Dry Eyes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The most telltale sign of Sjogren\u2019s disease is dry eyes<\/a>. Since the disease affects the tear ducts, one may feel like they are starting to cry and no tears come out. In addition, there may be discomfort in the eye and rapid blinking. Since dry eyes are quite common, depending on the time of year, particularly among people with allergies, this symptom is often dismissed by doctors unless other signs are present. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

To test for Sjorgen\u2019s disease, a doctor may try to see how much moisture is in your eyes and examine your tear ducts. There are a number of things to do to ease this symptom. Eye drops are a good start to eliminate redness and increase the moisture in the eye. In extreme cases, artificial tears may be necessary. Since liquid in the eye protects it, it is important to find other ways to guard your eyes, such as wearing high-quality sunglasses when outside. 
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2. Dry Mouth<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Another first indication of Sjogren\u2019s disease is dry mouth<\/a>. You may notice that your mouth is lacking in saliva even though you are not thirsty or dehydrated. No matter how much you drink, your mouth may still be dry. To test for Sjogren\u2019s, a doctor may measure the amount of saliva you are able to produce. Patients may be asked to spit in a dish, and if they are not able to create very much saliva, that may be a sign of Sjorgen\u2019s disease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since there is no cure for the condition, it is necessary to treat the symptoms. You may find that chewing gum will help stimulate the production of saliva. In some cases, patients are treated with artificial saliva. It is also important to remember not to open your mouth unless absolutely necessary to avoid air drying out the inside of your mouth. 
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3. Rashes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Since the moisture in our bodies is intended to cleanse and protect us, the dryness caused by Sjogren\u2019s disease can lead to inflammation <\/a>and irritation of the skin. The most common skin symptom for this condition is skin dryness, but because the skin is dry and not protected, rashes can develop that can be itchy and uncomfortable. In addition, patches of flat red bumps can be seen in several areas of the body. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Sjogren\u2019s sufferer may also experience blisters erupting spontaneously, ulcers and weals. Lesions may also appear on the legs of some patients. Your doctor may prescribe special creams to deal with these skin problems and prevent them from developing. It is important to moisturize your skin and wear sunscreen to keep it from drying out. Many of these rashes are a reaction to the heat and direct sunlight because the skin is no longer protected with moisture and is more vulnerable to breaking out. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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4. Swollen Salivary glands<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sjogren\u2019s disease is an autoimmune disorder, which means that the body attacks itself as it would an intruding bacteria <\/a>or virus. As a result, the body tends to produce excessive amounts of white blood cells and lymphocytes which tend to clog up ducts and glands, including the salivary glands. A patient with Sjogren\u2019s disease may have a swollen chin and face that may look as if he or she has the mumps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The lymph glands may also be severely swollen. The body \u201cbelieves\u201d that the salivary glands are the cause of the problem and may continue to send lymphocytes to that area, causing the swelling to continue. A physician may prescribe drugs that can keep the body from attacking itself. However, immunosuppressive drugs are only prescribed in extreme cases, since it can suppress the body\u2019s immune system.  Often, the swelling will subside on its own.
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5. Dry Skin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Dry skin<\/a> is almost an inevitable result of Sjogren\u2019s disease, and it can be uncomfortable and hard to live with. Fortunately, there are many types of moisturizers on the market, many for extremely dry skin. Moisturizing your skin and avoiding situations that may dry your skin is essential to dealing with Sjogren\u2019s disease. While it may be enjoyable to take a swim in a pool, keep in mind that chlorine dries out the skin, so swim in moderation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sunlight is important to lift your mood and give you the Vitamin D you need, but be sure to wear sunscreen and cover your skin to avoid dryness and rashes. Purchase a humidifier to increase the moisture in the air in your home. This is particularly important in winter months when home heating can dry out the air. Drink plenty of water, eat lots of fruits and vegetables as well as healthy fats, such as oily fish. 
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6. Joint swelling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Joint swelling is quite common among those who suffer from Sjogren\u2019s disease. This condition is often associated with rheumatoid arthritis<\/a>, and in many cases, patients suffer from both health issues. The joint pain often comes and goes in phases commonly known as \u201cflares.\u201d There may be phases after each flare when there is very little discomfort. The joint pain commonly attacks the ankles, fingers, wrists, knees, shoulders, and hips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In addition to rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia often occurs alongside Sjogren\u2019s disease. However, in the case of fibromyalgia, it may feel as if the joints are hurting, but the pain is actually radiating out from the muscles. It may be difficult to distinguish between arthritis and fibromyalgia, but the latter is usually regular and the former comes and goes. It may be necessary to take anti-inflammatory drugs to treat joint pain, but lifestyle changes are also crucial in reducing the pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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7. Dry Cough<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Since Sjogren\u2019s disease attacks the glands that provide moisture to the mouth, the reduced amount of saliva may eventually make the throat also feel dry. This dryness may or may not be accompanied by a dry cough<\/a>. It is important to make sure you are getting enough fluids, and it may be helpful to take throat drops to help alleviate the symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You may feel as if you are coming down with a cough as the result of a seasonal cold, but the problem just doesn\u2019t go away. If your dry cough and sore throat is also accompanied by other symptoms, such as dry eyes and dry mouth, you may be given a test for Sjogren\u2019s disease. You may decide to take cough medicine but beware of side effects associated with taking cough medicine long-term. Tea with honey and lemon may be a gentler solution to the problem. 
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8. Vaginal dryness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sjogren\u2019s syndrome tends to affect women over 40. For this reason, many symptoms, such as dry skin and vaginal dryness<\/a> may be dismissed as simply a part of the aging process or can be associated with the hormonal changes that occur during menopause. However, the vaginal dryness as a result of Sjogren\u2019s syndrome is not connected with menopause, because this syndrome can also affect women under 40. This inconvenient symptom may lead to decreased sexual pleasure and pain during sexual intercourse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A lubricant may help correct this symptom and ease much of the discomfort. The problem can be compounded, however, if the woman suffering from Sjogren\u2019s is also going through menopause. It may be useful to find either an oil-based or a water-based lubricant that is specially designed to deal with vaginal dryness, rather than a regular lubricant for ordinary use. 
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9. Corneal Damage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Damage to the cornea <\/a>can result from not catching and diagnosing Sjogren\u2019s syndrome early and is a complication that can arise from the condition if the symptoms are not treated. The symptom of dry eyes can be confused attributed to allergies or other seasonal issues and can be easily dismissed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the eye is not given moisture by other means, such as eye drops and artificial tears, the cornea could dry out and become damaged. In addition, the moisture released from the tear ducts can kill bacteria and eliminate eye problems in their early phases. If the eye does not have enough moisture, infections can beset the cornea and can interfere with its functioning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The result could be blurred vision or difficulty seeing that can be temporary or permanent. If the issue is not dealt with, eye damage could be long-term and can affect vision. 
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10. Fatigue<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When people think of Sjogren\u2019s dry eyes and dry mouth may be the most well-known symptoms, but many sufferers also complain of fatigue<\/a>. Not all of those diagnosed with Sjogren\u2019s syndrome suffer from fatigue and constant tiredness, but some report that this can be the most difficult of their symptoms to deal with. There are many different types of fatigue people with Sjogren\u2019s can suffer from. Many have constant fatigue, regardless of their other symptoms of the time of year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Others may feel more fatigue in the summer because the dryness of the air exacerbates their general feeling of dryness. Others may feel suddenly tired and unable to carry out everyday activities. Fatigue in some cases can be the result of the depression caused by their symptoms or the stress of dealing with them. Eating a healthy diet, including plenty of water, fresh vegetables can increase energy. 
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11. Cavities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The purpose of saliva <\/a>is to protect our mouths from germs and bacteria. When our bodies do not produce enough saliva, we become more vulnerable to cavities. In addition, saliva cleanses the enamel on the surface of the teeth and helps neutralize the acid that can seep up tooth decay. Plaque also forms on the surface of the teeth more readily if there is not very much saliva to rinse it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have a cavity as the result of experiencing dry mouth over a period of time, along with other symptoms, this may be a result of Sjogren\u2019s syndrome. In addition to holes forming in teeth, this ailment can also make the sufferer more vulnerable to infections in the mouth. It is important to brush your teeth more often if you have Sjorgen\u2019s syndrome, and it is recommended to use an electric toothbrush that can scrub the teeth more rapidly than a manual toothbrush. 
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12. Yeast Infection<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As a result of Sjogren\u2019s disease tends to cause vaginal dryness, a yeast infection<\/a> may develop more readily, especially with the reduction of vaginal fluid and the ability to fight off infection. Yeast infections are fungal and affect many women at some point in their lives, although with women suffering from Sjogren\u2019s, they may be more common and the symptoms may be more pronounced. A yeast infection can be characterized by itching, discomfort and increased discharge. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can reduce your likelihood of developing yeast infection by avoiding douching, which removes some healthy bacteria that can fight off infection. It is also a good idea to avoid scented soaps in bubble baths and feminine products with fragrances. Stay away from hot tubs and avoid wearing wet clothing on the lower part of your body, such as staying in a wet swimsuit for a long period of time. 
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13. Vision Problems <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Dry eyes are one of the first signs of Sjogren\u2019s syndrome, but it can be overlooked, since dry eyes can be a sign of many other types of problems, such as allergies<\/a>. If this issue is neglected, corneal damage may result, and with it, temporary or permanent vision difficulties. There may be an onset of vision problems, such as blurriness or sensitivity to the light. These issues may come and go, but if the symptoms are not treated, they could develop into more permanent problems with seeing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is important to use eye drops to add moisture to the eye and prevent corneal damage. In extreme cases, a doctor may prescribe artificial tears to add moisture to the eye on a longer-term basis. It is necessary to protect your eyes, particularly in the bright sunlight. Wear dark glasses to prevent excessive exposure to the sun and wear goggles when swimming, particularly in chlorinated pools. 
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14. Numbness or Tingling in the Extremities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In addition to the other conditions Sjogren\u2019s syndrome can cause, peripheral neuropathy is relatively common and severe. It manifests through numbness <\/a>and tingling in the arms and legs. In some cases, it is accompanied by weakness and a burning sensation. These symptoms are the result of nerve damage that happens, according to some researchers, when an autoantibody attacks its own cells. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since Sjorgen\u2019s Syndrome is an autoimmune condition, it regularly attacks its own cells, perceiving that they are attacking the body from the outside. The nervous system with this condition is particularly vulnerable, as autoantibodies attack the system that sends information to the brain from the nerves. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

More serious neuropathy can result if the signals that regulate the heartbeat or breathing are affected. There are medications that can relieve the symptoms of neuropathy, but there can be numerous side effects. Discuss which medication is right for you with your doctor.
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