Sjögren’s Disease

Sjögren’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects nearly four million Americans each year. The condition causes the immune system to attack the glands that produce moisture, leading to dry eyes and mouth.

While Sjögren’s disease is a life-long, chronic condition, it can be managed with proper care. At Banner Health, our team is dedicated to helping you understand and manage this condition.

What is Sjögren’s disease?

Sjögren’s disease occurs when the immune system attacks the glands that produce moisture. These glands usually make things like tears and saliva, which keep your eyes, mouth and other parts of your body moist. When the immune system mistakenly attacks these glands, it can lead to: 

• Dry eyes (burning, itching or gritty feeling)
• Dry mouth (Difficulty speaking, swallowing or tasting)

Sjögren’s disease may appear along (primary Sjögren’s) or along with other autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or scleroderma.

What causes Sjögren’s disease and who is at risk?

Sjögren’s disease occurs when the immune system doesn't work as it should. Typically, your immune system is there to protect you from infections. But in this case, it mistakenly targets healthy parts of your body.

Experts don’t know exactly why this happens, but some factors may increase your risk, including:

• Genetics: A family history of autoimmune disorders may increase your risk of developing Sjögren’s disease.
• Sex assigned at birth: The disease is more common in women or people assigned female at birth (AFAB).
• Age: While Sjögren’s disease can occur at any age, symptoms tend to appear after age 40.
• Other health conditions: People with other autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, type 1 diabetes or even recent viral infections may have a higher risk of developing Sjögren’s disease.
• Environmental triggers: Exposure to certain environmental factors, like chronic stress or pollution, may trigger the disease in people who are more likely to develop it due to genetics.

What are the symptoms of Sjögren’s disease?

The most common symptoms are dry eyes and dry mouth, but others may also appear.

These symptoms occur when the body lacks moisture in its tear ducts or salivary glands. You might feel something in your eyes, or they might burn, itch or feel gritty. Your mouth might feel very dry, and it could be hard to swallow, speak or even taste food.

Other possible symptoms include:

• Vaginal dryness and pain during sex
• Dry skin
• Joint pain or swelling
• Chronic cough or trouble breathing
• Feeling tired all the time (fatigue)
• Enlarged lymph nodes

Symptoms can vary, and not everyone experiences all of them.

How is Sjögren’s disease diagnosed?

Your health care provider will diagnose the disease with a physical exam and some tests.

They will start by discussing your medical history and symptoms. They may ask about any medications or supplements you are taking.

They may order other tests to check the function of your glands and the health of your immune system. These may include:

• Blood tests to reveal if your immune system is attacking healthy blood cells.
• Vision exams or eye tests to measure the moisture production in your eyes.
• Salivary gland tests to help see how much saliva you create from your salivary glands.   

Your health care provider may refer you to a specialist such as a rheumatologist, eye doctor or dentist for further testing or treatment.

Complications of Sjögren’s disease

If Sjögren’s disease is not well managed, it can sometimes lead to more serious problems. Some possible complications include:

• Infections: Dryness in the eyes, mouth and other areas can make it easier to get infections. For example, people with dry mouths may be more likely to get cavities or gum disease.
• Eye damage: If your eyes are extremely dry for a long time, it can damage the surface of your eyes, causing more serious vision problems. 
• Swollen salivary glands: Some people may notice painful swelling of the glands around the face and neck, especially when eating. 
• Lung and kidney issues: In some cases, Sjögren’s disease can affect other parts of the body, such as the lungs or kidneys, leading to inflammation or other health problems.
• Increased risk of lymphoma: Although rare, people with Sjögren’s disease have a slightly higher risk of developing a type of cancer called lymphoma. 

Treatment options for Sjögren’s disease

With the right care, most people with Sjögren’s disease live active, fulfilling lives. 

Management tips include: 

• Staying on top of regular checkups 
• Seeing specialists as needed (e.g., dentist, eye doctor, gynecologist) 
• Talking to your provider if symptoms worsen or treatment stops working 

Always call 911 or go to the emergency room if you are unable to breathe or swallow. 

Living with Sjögren’s disease

Sjögren’s disease is a lifelong, chronic condition but most people can lead normal, active lives with proper care and management. 

Part of your care involves regularly seeing your health care provider for general health screenings. You may also need to see specialists, such as an eye doctor, gynecologist or dentist, to help manage specific symptoms.

Don’t hesitate to talk to your provider if you think a treatment is not working or as effective as it used to be. Early treatment can help prevent more serious problems and improve your quality of life.

Call 911 or go to the emergency department if you can’t breathe or swallow. 

Why choose Banner Health for Sjögren’s disease care?

At Banner Health, we provide expert care for patients with Sjögren’s disease and other autoimmune conditions. From early diagnosis to personalized treatment plans, our team is here to support your long-term health. 

Schedule an appointment online or call to connect with a specialist today.