What is Sjogren’s syndrome and what are its symptoms? Is there a cure for Sjogren’s syndrome?

Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune dysfunction that may be seen in individuals of all ages, though it is uncommon in individuals beneath the age of 20. In autoimmune issues, the physique’s protection system operates by confronting itself.

The immune system is the physique’s pure protection in opposition to overseas substances. A malfunctioning immune system additionally loses its skill to differentiate between physique cells and antigens.

Sjögren’s syndrome can happen in two methods. Main Sjögren’s Syndrome is seen alone and has no reference to different illnesses. Secondary Sjogren’s Syndrome; It begins with some inflammatory rheumatic illnesses akin to lupus, polymyositis, rheumatoid arthritis. In Sjögren’s syndrome, which is extra frequent in girls, 9 out of 10 sufferers are girls.

So, what is Sjogren’s syndrome and what are its signs? Is there a cure for Sjogren’s syndrome?

WHAT IS SJÖGREN SYNDROME?

Sjögren’s syndrome is an immune system dysfunction that normally manifests itself as dry eyes and mouth. As a results of the assault of the white blood cells, which defend the human physique from microbes, on the glands that moisturize the physique, these glands develop into unable to supply tears and saliva.

Sjögren’s syndrome is a illness that needs to be taken severely as a result of irritation could happen within the lungs, kidneys, nerves, liver, thyroid gland, mind and joints.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SJÖGREN SYNDROME?

dry mouth: Since much less saliva is produced than regular in sufferers with Sjögren’s syndrome, they’ve issue in chewing, swallowing and talking. This may additionally cut back the sense of style.

Dry eyes: There could also be burning and redness within the eyes that really feel dry and sandy. Whereas sleeping, extreme burrs could accumulate across the eyes and the eyes could develop into extra delicate to daylight. Left untreated, Sjögren’s syndrome may cause blind spots within the eyes and corneal ulcers (wrapped on the skin of the eyeball). In uncommon circumstances, imaginative and prescient loss can happen.

Swollen salivary glands: Fever could accompany swollen salivary glands. Half of Sjögren’s syndrome sufferers have swollen glands.

Tooth decay: This is a drawback attributable to dry mouth. Bactericidal substances (enzymes) in saliva battle micro organism. Thus, it has a protecting position in opposition to tooth decay. When saliva is decreased, much less enzymes will probably be produced, making tooth decay simpler.

Fungal an infection within the mouth: Most individuals with dry mouth expertise burning and redness within the mouth. This drawback is attributable to a small fungus within the mouth referred to as Candida.

Drying within the nostril, throat and lungs: Dry cough may cause hoarseness, decreased sense of odor and nosebleeds. Pneumonia, bronchitis and ear issues could happen attributable to this dryness.

Dry vagina: Since Sjögren’s syndrome may cause ache and irritation within the vagina attributable to dryness, sexual activity can develop into a painful situation for girls.

Tiredness: It might happen because of the illness itself or could develop as a results of the bodily and emotional stress attributable to the continual illness.

IS THERE A TREATMENT FOR SJÖGREN SYNDROME?

Lengthy-term therapy planning is wanted in Sjögren’s syndrome. The drug containing hydroxychloroquine is efficient within the therapy of the illness. This drug, which was initially used within the therapy of malaria to destroy the autoimmune mechanism and its personal physique cells, is very efficient for muscle and joint ache.

There are additionally medicines that enhance salivation to alleviate dry mouth. Appropriate toothpaste, mouthwash, lozenge and gum are really useful for delicate enamel. Dry eye could be prevented with synthetic tear drops or gels. If there is corneal harm, different procedures could also be carried out by the ophthalmologist.