Effective Strategies for Reducing Symptoms of Sjögren's Disease

Living with Sjögren's disease can present daily struggles. The constant dryness, fatigue, and pain can make even simple tasks feel challenging. It is beneficial to find ways of reducing symptoms of Sjogren's disease to help keep life on a steady course.

This condition affects an estimated 0.1-1% of the population, and a staggering 90% of cases occur in females. Finding solutions for reducing symptoms of Sjogren's disease is something people tend to have to do for themselves.

Table of Contents:

• What is Sjögren's Disease?
  • Understanding the Root Cause
• Diagnosing Sjögren's: More Than Just Feeling Dry
  • The Diagnostic Process
• Treating Sjögren's: A Personalized Strategy for Reducing Symptoms of Sjogren's Disease
  • Common Treatment Approaches
• Reducing Symptoms of Sjögren's Syndrome: Lifestyle Tweaks
  • Tackling Dry Eyes
  • Managing Dry Mouth
  • Dealing with Skin Issues
  • Other tips to consider.
• Reducing Symptoms of Sjogren's Disease With A Proactive Approach
  • Know what triggers things for you.
  • Listen to your body.
• Conclusion

What is Sjögren's Disease?

Sjögren's disease is a systemic autoimmune condition. This means it affects the entire body, but primarily targets moisture-producing glands.

The most common symptoms are dry eyes and dry mouth. Sjögren's can also cause fatigue, joint pain, and even impact internal organs.

Understanding the Root Cause

While the exact cause is still being studied, research suggests a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Some think a viral or bacterial infection might trigger it in those with a genetic predisposition. Some research shows Sicca syndrome could be a factor.

Interestingly, some studies show that estrogen, a female hormone, may play a protective role. The drop of estrogen levels that come naturally with age can allow things to be worse off.

Diagnosing Sjögren's: More Than Just Feeling Dry

There's no single test to identify it, so the doctors often go through various tests. These tests help to rule out similar ailments.

Antibodies like anti-SSA (Ro) and anti-SSB (La) are common indicators. Those antibodies can indicate a positive test, but show up in only 40-70% of people with Sjögren’s syndrome.

The Diagnostic Process

A rheumatologist is the go-to specialist for diagnosis and management. They will look at many things such as your medical history, symptoms, and other factors.

Your doctor may perform a series of tests, including blood work, eye exams, and salivary gland function tests. Sometimes, a lip biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treating Sjögren's: A Personalized Strategy for Reducing Symptoms of Sjogren's Disease

There's currently no cure. However, various treatments can significantly improve the quality of life.

It affects everyone differently; that's why the treatment must be customized. Finding the best path requires teamwork with healthcare specialists, such as your primary care physician and a rheumatologist.

Common Treatment Approaches

Keep in mind that people can deal with periods of flares. It gets really challenging as it comes and goes.

Reducing Symptoms of Sjögren's Syndrome: Lifestyle Tweaks

For many with Sjögren's, daily changes and strategies provide real relief. This includes things such as modifying your diet and pacing yourself with exercise.

Tackling Dry Eyes

Dry eyes are often the most irritating symptom. Using preservative-free artificial tears frequently can make a huge difference.

For nighttime, consider thicker lubricating ointments. Special glasses help too by creating a moisture chamber around the eyes.

Managing Dry Mouth

Staying hydrated is important. Sip water throughout the day. You can keep a water bottle close to help remind you to stay hydrated.

Sugar-free gum or lozenges can stimulate saliva production. Avoid alcohol as it can make dryness worse.

Saliva substitutes are available over-the-counter. These can give short-term relief.

Dealing with Skin Issues

Sjögren's can make skin more sensitive, especially to sunlight. This can mean a higher chance of developing a rash when spending time in the sun.

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF daily. Moisturize regularly with a fragrance-free lotion to avoid any skin problems.

Other tips to consider.

Try using a humidifier. According to Penn Medicine, “the target humidity level should be 60 percent” for those who suffer from Sjogren’s Syndrome.

Reducing Symptoms of Sjogren's Disease With A Proactive Approach

Although Sjogren's syndrome may not have a definitive answer as to weather there's a reduced life expectancy, it does call for an active role to reduce those challenges. Regular dental care can help to monitor any oral health concerns that develop from dry mouth.

Know what triggers things for you.

Keep track of activities or foods that seem to worsen your symptoms. Stress, dry air, and certain medications can all be triggers.

Listen to your body.

When your joints ache or fatigue sets in, rest. Prioritizing self-care reduces long-term problems.

Conclusion

Finding ways to manage the difficulties of Sjogren's disease requires adapting over time. There is support out there and the symptoms can be improved. TV personality Carrie Ann Inaba shared her personal story of struggles with Sjögren's publicly and openly in an interview with NIH MedlinePlus Magazine.

Resources like the The Sjögren's Syndrome Foundation provide support. While living with a chronic illness is no one's first choice, reducing symptoms of Sjogren's disease is entirely possible with some proactive strategies and support.