At ArthritisCARE we offer holistic, comprehensive Sjögren’s syndrome treatment, tailored to each individual.
Sjögren’s syndrome primarily affects the body’s mucous membranes and glands. It is frequently linked to other immune system disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
What is Sjögren’s syndrome?
Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease, caused when an overactive immune system attacks the mucous membranes and moisture-producing glands of your body. These membranes and glands stimulate saliva flow and produce tears to keep those areas moist and protected.
So when your immune system malfunctions you may experience dry mouth and eyes, dry skin, and other common symptoms of this autoimmune disorder.
While Sjögren’s syndrome can manifest independently (primary Sjögren’s syndrome), it can appear as a complication of other immune system disorders (secondary Sjögren’s syndrome), such as:
- Connective tissue diseases
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Scleroderma
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition that attacks the mucous membranes and salivary gland tissue, resulting in dry, irritable eyes and mouth, vision problems, inflammation and other systemic symptoms.
What are the causes of Sjögren’s syndrome in Australia?
While the exact cause of primary Sjögren’s syndrome remains unknown, current studies indicate potential links to genetic predispositions or specific viral infections. These studies have also found that women are more susceptible, with 90% of diagnosed individuals being female.
Identifying symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome
Sjögren’s syndrome treatment – Dry mouth and eyes are the primary symptoms of this condition, managed with artificial saliva, mouth rinses, eye drops and medication to control inflammation and boost tear production.
Sjögren’s syndrome results from particular immune system cells malfunctioning, impacting mucous membranes and salivary glands. However, as it is an autoimmune disease there can be systemic symptoms too. The common symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome include:
- A constant dry, irritating or burning sensation in the eyes
- Dryness in the mouth often leads to dental complications such as decay
- Difficulties in chewing and swallowing
- Swelling of the face or neck glands
- Fatigue
Secondary symptoms can extend to skin, nose, throat, or vaginal dryness and rashes, joint pain or inflammation. In rare cases, it may also impact the circulatory and nervous system or other organs, such as the lungs, kidneys, blood vessels, liver, pancreas, gastrointestinal system and central nervous system.
How is Sjögren’s syndrome diagnosed?
A Rheumatologist will assess your symptoms, conduct a physical assessment and order several tests to diagnose Sjögren’s syndrome.
The Schirmer’s test is a primary diagnostic tool used for Sjögren’s syndrome. This test measures how well your tear ducts are working. Additionally, blood tests and lip biopsies may be used for a more conclusive diagnosis.
Individuals with pre-existing rheumatoid arthritis or related conditions have an increased risk of Sjögren’s syndrome. Therefore if they develop any symptoms associated with Sjögren’s syndrome, they should be thoroughly investigated.
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What are the options for Sjögren’s syndrome treatment?
Currently, there is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome. However, there are several options for treating Sjögren’s syndrome to manage symptoms and prevent serious complications.
Over-the-counter options:
- Artificial saliva
- Medicated mouthwash and rinses
- Lubricating eye drops
- Artificial tears
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Pain relieving medications
To optimise management, a collaborative approach with your Rheumatologist and other health care professionals like dentists and optometrists is best. This combined and holistic approach helps manage your symptoms and monitor your dental and eye health.
For comprehensive management and prevention, a blend of treatments is essential. Lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, routine physical activity, and abstaining from excessive alcohol or smoking, also play a crucial role in symptom management.
Sjögren’s syndrome treatment – Eye drops, artificial tears and saliva, mouth rinses and prescription medications help to alleviate symptoms related to this condition.
What is the cost for Sjögren’s syndrome treatment?
Treatment costs can vary based on individualised plans. For precise details on fees and potential Medicare rebates, please visit our FAQ page.
Why choose the ArthritisCARE team for your
Sjögren’s syndrome treatment in Brisbane?
Our ArthritisCARE team is dedicated to delivering individualised and compassionate care. With cutting-edge facilities and the latest therapeutic interventions, our goal is to ensure that every patient thrives.
Get in touch to explore how we can aid in Sjögren’s syndrome treatment and long-term management today.
Meet Dr Peter Landsberg.
Leading the ArthritisCARE team is Dr. Peter Landsberg, our founder. Dr Landsberg’s expertise and passion lie in inflammatory arthritis, rheumatic disease, and connective tissue disorders. He is committed to patient-centric, holistic care that helps improve quality of life.
How to find us
You can find the ArthritisCARE team here:
- 24 Railway Terrace (Corner of Pound Street) Dutton Park QLD 4102
- (07) 3255 1066
- (07) 3255 1533
- admin@arthritiscare.com.au
-
Monday to Friday: 8.00 am – 4.00 pm
Sat, Sun & Public Holidays: Closed
FAQs
What is the best Sjögren's syndrome treatment?
What triggers Sjögren's disease?
The exact cause of Sjögren’s syndrome is not fully understood at this time. However, it’s believed to be an autoimmune condition, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. Genetic factors, viral infections, and hormonal imbalances might contribute to its onset, and females have an increased risk of developing this condition.
What is the drug of choice for Sjögren's syndrome treatment?
The drug of choice depends on your individual symptoms. Pilocarpine (Salagen) and cevimeline (Evoxac) are common prescription medications used to increase saliva production and address dry mouth symptoms. Artificial tears and eye drops can help with dry eyes. Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) that may help your immune system.
What is the latest treatment for Sjögren's?
Research is ongoing, and new treatments are being explored, including biologics and targeted therapies that address specific immune system abnormalities associated with Sjögren’s syndrome. However, for now, management includes medications to address dry mouth and eyes, joint pain, and other symptoms. It also involves a collaboration between your rheumatologist, eye doctor and dentists to monitor your oral and eye health.
What are the three signs of Sjögren's syndrome?
The three most common signs people with Sjögren’s syndrome will exhibit are abnormal dryness of the mouth and eyes, fatigue and joint pain. If a person who has other conditions such as RA, lupus or connective tissue disease develops these symptoms they should be investigated for sjögren’s syndrome.
What are the worst symptoms of Sjögren's?
While symptoms vary, some of the more severe ones include persistent dry eyes and painful burning, or difficulty swallowing, oral infections and tooth decay due to excessive mouth dryness. People with Sjögren’s syndrome may also develop thrush infections due to vaginal dryness, irritable bowels or other symptoms if their internal organs are affected.
How do you know if you have Sjögren's syndrome?
Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, blood tests, and sometimes specialised tests like salivary gland biopsies or Schirmer’s test for eye dryness. Your rheumatologist will look at risk factors, family history and other relevant factors before determining a diagnosis.
Can Sjögren's syndrome be cured?
While there’s currently no cure for Sjögren’s, treatments can effectively manage and alleviate symptoms, improving the quality of life for those affected. A collaborative approach with a rheumatologist, dentist and eye specialist, as well as a holistic treatment plan, can help you live a full and healthy life.
Where can I learn more about Sjögren’s syndrome?
Arthritis Australia’s Sjögren’s syndrome Resources
https://arthritisaustralia.com.au/types-of-arthritis/sjogrens-syndrome/
Information Sheet: Sjögren’s syndrome by Arthritis Australia
https://arthritisaustralia.com.au/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Sjo%CC%88grenSyndrome_New-updated.pdf
The Sjögren’s Foundation (US)
https://www.sjogrens.org/
Information Sheet: What is Sjögren’s? by the Sjögren’s Foundation
https://www.sjogrens.org/sites/default/files/inline-files/What%20is%20Sjogrens%20Brochure.pdf
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