Understanding Sjögren’s Syndrome: How It Affects the Eyes and What You Can Do

Sjögren’s Syndrome is one of the most common autoimmune diseases, yet it remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood—especially when it comes to how it affects the eyes. At PRN Vision, we’re committed to raising awareness and helping people better understand conditions like Sjögren’s, particularly during Sjögren’s Awareness Month in April.

This post will walk you through what Sjögren’s is, how it affects vision and eye comfort, strategies to manage symptoms, and how you can get involved in spreading awareness and supporting ongoing research.

What is Sjögren’s Syndrome?

Sjögren’s (pronounced SHOW-grins) is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture-producing glands. The condition primarily targets the salivary and lacrimal (tear) glands, leading to dry mouth and dry eyes—but it can also affect the skin, lungs, kidneys, and nervous system.

Key Facts About Sjögren’s:

• It affects approximately 4 million Americans, 90% of whom are women.
• Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 60.
• It is often associated with other autoimmune diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
• According to the Sjögren’s Foundation, it takes an average of 3 years to receive a proper diagnosis.

There are two types:

• Primary Sjögren’s: Occurs by itself without the presence of another autoimmune condition.
• Secondary Sjögren’s: Occurs alongside another autoimmune disease, such as lupus or RA.

How Sjögren’s Affects the Eyes

One of the hallmark symptoms of Sjögren’s is dry eye disease. The immune system’s attack on the lacrimal glands leads to a significant reduction in tear production, which is essential for keeping the eyes lubricated, nourished, and protected from environmental irritants.

Common Eye Symptoms in Sjögren’s Patients:

• Persistent dryness or a gritty, sandy feeling
• Burning, stinging, or itching
• Redness and inflammation
• Light sensitivity (photophobia)
• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Eye fatigue, especially after reading or screen use

Tears are more than just water—they are made up of a delicate balance of oil, water, and mucus. Sjögren’s disrupts this balance, leaving the eyes vulnerable to damage, inflammation, and infection. In more advanced cases, dry eye can lead to corneal abrasions or ulcers if not managed properly.

Diagnosing Sjögren’s-Related Dry Eye

Because dry eye is a common symptom in the general population, especially among women over 40, it’s important to identify whether Sjögren’s is the underlying cause. An eye care professional may perform several tests to evaluate tear quality and volume:

• Schirmer’s Test: Measures tear production using a small paper strip placed under the eyelid.
• Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT): Evaluates how long tears stay on the eye before evaporating.
• Ocular Surface Staining: Uses special dyes to detect damage to the cornea or conjunctiva.
• Blood Work: To check for autoimmune markers such as SSA/Ro and SSB/La antibodies.

If Sjögren’s is suspected, your eye doctor may refer you to a rheumatologist or immunologist for a comprehensive diagnosis.

Managing and Treating Dry Eyes Caused by Sjögren’s

While there is currently no cure for Sjögren’s, the goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and prevent long-term damage. Here are evidence-based strategies for managing Sjögren’s-related dry eye:

1. Artificial Tears and Eye Lubricants

Over-the-counter preservative-free eye drops can provide temporary relief. Gel-based formulas or ointments are helpful at night.

2. Moisture-Retaining Practices

Use a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air, especially during colder months. Wearing wraparound glasses can reduce evaporation from wind and dry environments.

3. Warm Compresses and Eyelid Hygiene

Applying a warm compress daily helps stimulate oil glands in the eyelids, improving the tear film’s stability. Gentle lid wipes or eyelid cleansers can reduce inflammation and debris buildup.

4. Prescription Eye Drops

Medications like cyclosporine or lifitegrast can help reduce inflammation and increase tear production in moderate to severe cases.

5. Punctal Plugs

These tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to block drainage and help tears stay on the eye longer.

6. Lifestyle Adjustments

Avoid smoking, reduce screen time, and take regular breaks when using digital devices. Blinking more often during concentrated tasks can also help maintain tear coverage.

7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Numerous studies suggest omega-3s may help support tear production and reduce inflammation, particularly in autoimmune-related dry eye conditions.

Emotional and Quality of Life Impacts

Living with a chronic condition like Sjögren’s can affect more than physical health—it can impact emotional well-being, energy levels, and quality of life. Constant eye discomfort may make reading, driving, working, or enjoying hobbies more difficult.

Studies show that patients with Sjögren’s experience significantly higher rates of fatigue, depression, and anxiety, partly due to the daily burden of managing symptoms. Support groups, both in person and online, can be an invaluable source of connection, encouragement, and shared knowledge.

How You Can Get Involved: Support Research and Awareness

April is not only a time to reflect on personal health but also an opportunity to raise awareness and support research efforts. The Sjögren’s Foundation (sjogrens.org) plays a critical role in advocacy, education, and funding scientific studies aimed at better diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, a cure.

Ways to Get Involved:

• Visit sjogrens.org to access educational materials, patient stories, and event calendars.
• Join or donate to Team Sjögren’s, the Foundation’s national fundraising and awareness movement.
• Participate in awareness campaigns by sharing information on social media or talking to loved ones about the condition.
• Advocate for earlier diagnosis by encouraging healthcare providers to learn about Sjögren’s symptoms and screening methods.

Every voice and contribution helps reduce the average time to diagnosis and brings us closer to better treatment options.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

Sjögren’s Syndrome is more common than most people realize—and so are the challenges that come with it. If you're experiencing persistent dry eye and suspect it may be something more than simple irritation, don’t ignore the signs. An early and accurate diagnosis can open the door to meaningful relief and a better quality of life.

At PRN Vision, we are dedicated to helping people understand the eye-related effects of autoimmune conditions like Sjögren’s. Through education and awareness, we believe every individual can feel empowered to take charge of their vision and overall health.

This April, let's shed light on Sjögren’s. Talk to your doctor, support a loved one, or share what you’ve learned. Together, we can make a difference—one pair of eyes at a time.