Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system's defence cells attack the salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to functional disorders.
The majority of women suffer from the disease (approx. 90%). They often also suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, vasculitis, destructive non-purulent cholanngitis or chronic active hepatitis.
The general signs of the disease include increased body temperature, muscle pain and aching salivary and parotid glands as well as lymph nodes. Further symptoms may occur individually or in combination in the following organs:
Further symptoms may occur individually or in combination in the following organs:
Eyes
Mouth
Further signs
The therapy is set up individually according to the respective symptoms.
In principle, measures are taken to promote the flow of saliva (e.g. using chewing gum and sweets). In addition, artificial tear fluid is administered against the dryness of the eyes.
If the disease is more active, saliva production is stimulated with drugs such as pilocarpine derivatives, bromhexine or the local application of ciclosporin.
If internal organs are also affected, immunosuppressive therapy inhibits the inflammatory reaction, e.g. with glucocorticoids.
Drink enough and protect your eyes from smoke and wind.