Definition:
Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder wherein immune cells attack and destroy the tear and salivary ducts causing dryness in the mouth and eyes. It is a chronic and slowly progressing disorder marked by inability to produce tear and saliva. It is also associated with rheumatic disorders including rheumatoid arthritis.
Diagnosis:
Accurate diagnosis is achieved by means of thorough analysis of history of condition and the symptoms present in the individual in combination of complete eye examination.
Treatment:
Treatment is generally symptomatic and supportive because there is still no proven effective treatment that can restore gland secretion.
Symptoms and Signs:
Early symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome may include one-sided or both sides swollen parotid salivary gland, swollen cheeks or jaw.
The following are some of the characteristic traits and features that presents as symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome:
• Dry mouth and dry eyes
• Skin, nose and vaginal dryness may also occur
• Difficulty in swallowing because of dry mouth
• Mouth redness
• Cracked lips
• Mouth sores in the corners of the mouth
• Gritty feel in the eye
• Foreign body sensation
Causes:
Rheumatoid arthritis are underlying medical conditions that could possibly cause Sjogren's syndrome; however there are researchers that link the condition to a combination of genetic and environmental factors like viral or bacterial infection.
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