What is Sjögren's syndrome?

Sjögren's syndrome: symptoms

Sjogren's syndrome is most commonly manifested as follows:

• Dryness of the eyes (xerophthalmia) - burning, stinging and a foreign body sensation in the eyes.
• Dry mouth (xerostomia) - difficulty swallowing, speaking, increased tooth decay.
• Fatigue - debilitating fatigue can greatly affect quality of life.
• Joint and muscle pain - joint swelling and general stiffness are sometimes present.
• Skin manifestations - dry skin and rashes.
• Dryness in the nose, throat and vagina - causing further complications.

Sjögren's syndrome: experience with untreated disease

If Sjogren's syndrome is left untreated, serious complications can occur:

• Damage to the cornea due to lack of tears and dry eyes.
• Tooth decay and tooth loss due to dry mouth.
• Inflammation of the airways due to lack of moisture in the airways.
• Damage to internal organs - in some cases, kidney, lung or liver damage may occur.

It is very important that you seek medical attention early and do not underestimate your symptoms. Neglecting treatment can lead to irreversible damage, so it is important not to delay seeing a specialist.

Sjögren's syndrome and diagnosis

The exact cause of Sjogren's syndrome is not completely known, but genetics and environmental influences play a role. Certain factors can exacerbate symptoms, including:

• Hormonal changes (e.g. menopause).
• Infections (e.g., viral infections).
• Stress.
• Dry climate or environments with high levels of dust or allergens.

If you have any suspicions of Sjogren's syndrome, please do not hesitate to contact us. Make an appointment online, call or email us - early diagnosis and treatment by a rheumatologist can significantly improve your quality of life.

Sjögren's syndrome: treatment

Treatment depends on the severity and type of symptoms and usually focuses on relieving dryness and other complaints. Common methods include:

• Eye drops and gels to moisten the eyes.
• Artificial saliva or medications that promote saliva production.
• Anti-inflammatory medications and immunosuppressants to control autoimmune reactions.
• Physiotherapy and treatment of joint pain.

At ATODA Medical we offer comprehensive care for patients with autoimmune vasculitis, systemic scleroderma or Sjogren's syndrome. Our specialists have extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease, and we provide advanced therapies tailored to each patient. We use the latest diagnostic methods and also offer support for long-term monitoring of the condition and adjustments to treatment according to the evolution of the disease.