Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder characterized by dry mouth and dry eyes. As in any other autoimmune disease, there is abnormal production of extra antibodies in the blood that are directed against various tissues of the body. This overactive and misdirected immune system causes inflammation of the tissues; these immune forces are particularly directed at the glands that produce tears (lacrimal glands) leads to decreased water production for tears and dry eyes, the glands that produce the saliva in the mouth (salivary glands, including the parotid glands) leads to decreased saliva production and dry mouth and dry lips.

 

Primary Sjogren’s Syndrome, it is solely characterized by the glandular inflammation and barring the inflammation of other connective tissues. While, Secondary Sjögren’s Syndrome is a combination of glandular inflammation along with inflammation of other soft tissues presenting as  rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus or even scleroderma. In certain patients there is only dryness of eyes and mouth without any other symptoms of Sjögren’s Syndrome.

 

Since it is an autoimmune disorder, the cause is not well known, it might be genetic cause. These are more commonly associated with other autoimmune illnesses, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, autoimmune thyroid disease, type I diabetes, etc. Most patients with Sjögren's syndrome are female.

 

Though there is no specific treatment for this syndrome, however the suffering can minimized by supportive treatment, such as artificial tear and intake of huge amounts of liquids.

-Koya Satyasri