Does your body feel dehydrated? It could be Sjögren's Syndrome!

Do you sometimes feel like your eyes are dry and your mouth is dry? Maybe it's just that if you're just tired and have these things all the time, it's not normal. Today we're going to talk about a condition called 'Sjögren's Syndrome', which has a strange name, but it affects some people. You may not be familiar with this name, but its symptoms may be familiar to you.

What is 'Sjögren's Syndrome'?

Simply put, 'Sjogren's Syndrome' is an autoimmune disease that affects the glands that produce moisture in our body. Now you may be wondering what this 'autoimmune' means. Imagine, our body has a system that protects us from diseases, it is called the immune system. It is like an army that protects our country. But in this 'autoimmune' disease, what happens is that our own defenders, that is, the immune system, mistakenly attack our own good cells, in this case the glands that produce moisture. This is like the security guard in our house thinking that we are a thief and attacking us.

As a result, your body's moisture-producing glands stop working properly. This mainly affects:

• Tear system: This causes dry eyes.
• Salivary glands in the mouth: This causes the mouth to become dry.
• Nose: The nose may become dry.
• Throat: The throat may become dry and cause coughing.
• The digestive system may also be affected to some extent.
• For women's vaginas: The vagina may become dry.

This name is pronounced "Shaw-Granz syndrome." If you have new symptoms of dry eyes or mouth, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms (such as pain), it is very important to see a doctor.

Are there types of Sjögren's Syndrome?

Yes, doctors divide this into two main types:

1. Primary Sjögren's syndrome: This is not caused by any other medical condition. That is, it occurs on its own.

2. Secondary Sjögren's syndrome: This is caused by another condition or problem. That is, another disease is the underlying cause.

How common is this condition?

It is reported that a significant number of people around the world have this condition called 'Sjögren's Syndrome'. It is said that about 2 million people in a country like America suffer from this condition. There may be people with this condition in our country as well.

What are the symptoms of Sjögren's Syndrome?

The main and most common symptom of this is abnormal dryness in parts of the body.

• Dry or itchy eyes: It can feel like sand is in your eyes. Sometimes your eyes may also become red.
• Dry mouth (xerostomia): The mouth can become so dry that it becomes difficult to speak or swallow food. Mouth ulcers can develop. Saliva may also thicken.
• Vaginal dryness in women: This can cause pain during sex.
• Dry skin: The skin may become dry and itchy.
• Dry nose and frequent nosebleeds.
• Dry throat: You may experience a frequent dry cough.

In addition to this dryness, Sjögren's syndrome can cause other symptoms:

• Joint pain: Like arthritis.
• Muscle pain or weakness.
• Swollen lymph nodes.
• Fatigue: A feeling of constant fatigue that doesn't go away no matter how much sleep you get.
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or difficulty speaking.
• Brain fog: Difficulty thinking clearly and feeling like you can't concentrate.
• Loss of taste.
• Tooth decay or tooth loss: As saliva production in the mouth decreases, the protection of the teeth decreases.
• Skin rashes.
• Neuropathy: Things like numbness and tingling in the limbs.
• Stomach inflammation or other digestive problems.
• Light sensitivity: Eyes seem to turn blue when you go outside.

What are the causes of Sjögren's Syndrome?

We've already said that this is an 'autoimmune' disease . That means our own immune system attacks our own glands. However, doctors still haven't figured out exactly why this happens.

• There is no known exact cause for primary Sjögren's syndrome .
• Secondary Sjögren's syndrome is caused by other health conditions, especially other autoimmune diseases and some viral infections.

Several viral infections that can cause secondary Sjögren's syndrome include:

• Hepatitis C
• `Cytomegalovirus (CMV)`
• Epstein-Barr virus
• `Human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV)`
• `COVID-19`

Some autoimmune diseases associated with Sjögren's syndrome are:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• `Lupus`

Important: Not everyone with these conditions will develop Sjögren's syndrome. Also, there is no guarantee that someone with Sjögren's syndrome will also develop these other conditions. However, research shows that there is a link.

Who is at higher risk of developing Sjögren's Syndrome?

Although anyone can develop this condition, certain groups are at higher risk:

• Women: More than 90% of people with Sjögren's syndrome are women. Men can also develop it, but it is very rare.
• People with other autoimmune diseases: About half of people with Sjögren's syndrome have at least one other autoimmune disease.
• People between the ages of 45 and 55: Although it can develop in children, young people, and people over the age of 55, it is usually in this age group that it develops the most.
• People with a family history of Sjögren's syndrome: About 10% of people with Sjögren's syndrome have a close relative (parent or sibling) with the condition.

How do you know for sure if you have Sjögren's Syndrome? (Diagnosis)

A doctor will determine if you have Sjögren's syndrome by doing a physical exam and some tests. The doctor will examine you and ask about your symptoms. Tell the doctor when you first noticed these changes, and whether your symptoms are worse at certain times of the day or during certain activities.

Diagnosing Sjögren's syndrome is usually part of a process called differential diagnosis . This means that before your doctor can confirm that you have Sjögren's syndrome, they will do several tests to rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms. Some of the tests you may have are:

• Blood tests: Specifically, to check for certain types of antibodies.
• Eye exam: There are special tests to check the moisture level in the eyes.
• Dental checkup: The function of the salivary glands in the mouth can be seen.
• Urinalysis.
• Biopsies: Sometimes a small piece of tissue, such as from the inside of the lip, is taken and examined to look for changes in the salivary glands.
• X-rays: You may be asked to take a chest X-ray to see if there is any impact on your lungs.

You may also need to see several specialists:

• Rheumatologist: A doctor who specializes in joint diseases and autoimmune diseases.
• Eye care specialists.
• Dentist.
• An Otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) is a doctor who specializes in the ears, nose, and throat.

What are the possible complications of Sjögren's Syndrome?

Sjögren's syndrome can cause some complications. But don't worry , most people don't develop serious complications.

• Increased risk of mouth and eye infections: Due to low humidity, germs can easily cause infections.
• Abnormalities in liver or kidney function.
• Lymphomas: A type of cancer that develops in the lymph nodes. The risk of this occurring is very low, but it is not something to ignore.
• Lung problems: Sometimes it can be mistaken for pneumonia.
• Neurological problems: Things like weakness, numbness.

Most people with Sjögren's syndrome live without serious complications. If you have secondary Sjögren's syndrome, the underlying condition may increase your risk of complications. Talk to your doctor about this.

How is Sjögren's Syndrome treated?

Your doctor will recommend treatments to help control your symptoms. There is currently no cure for Sjögren's syndrome. However, your doctor can help you find a treatment plan that will minimize the impact it has on your daily life and quality of life.

The treatment you need will depend on which parts of your body are affected by Sjögren's syndrome.

Some common treatments for dry eyes, mouth, or vagina include:

• Artificial tears: Your eye specialist may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops, prescription drops, or lubricants that lubricate the eyes.
• Surgery for dry eyes (punctal plugs): An eye surgeon (ophthalmologist) can plug some or all of your tear ducts. This helps keep your natural tears in your eyes longer.
• Saliva producers: Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter saliva supplements or medications that help your body produce more saliva. Chewing gum, sipping water, and sucking on ice cubes throughout the day can help keep your mouth moist.
• Special mouthwash or dental care products: People with Sjögren's syndrome are at increased risk of dental problems. Therefore, regular dental cleanings, special fluoride treatments, or prescription toothpaste and mouthwash may be necessary.
• Vaginal moisturizers or lubricants: Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter or prescription lubricants. These can be used daily or during intercourse.
• Hormone therapy: Some people may need hormone therapy, such as estrogen, to treat vaginal dryness caused by a hormonal imbalance.

Treatment for pain and other symptoms:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications such as `NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)` (e.g. ibuprofen) or `acetaminophen` (e.g. Panadol) can help reduce pain and swelling. Do not take these medications for more than 10 days at a time without medical advice.
• Corticosteroids: These are medications that reduce inflammation and are given as pills or injections prescribed by a doctor.
• Immunosuppressants: These medications calm your immune system and reduce its activity. Your doctor may suggest medications such as DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs).

What kind of experience can someone with Sjögren's Syndrome expect?

You will have to manage your symptoms for a long time, possibly for the rest of your life. However, once you find the right treatment for you, the severity of your symptoms should decrease. People with Sjögren's syndrome usually learn to manage their symptoms, so the severity of their symptoms will decrease over time.

Can Sjögren's Syndrome be prevented?

Because the exact cause is unknown, there is no way to prevent Sjögren's syndrome. It is also impossible to predict who will develop it or when.

When should you see a doctor?

See a doctor if you develop new symptoms, or if your symptoms get worse. Keep track of your symptoms and note any changes.

Your doctor will tell you how often you need to come in for follow-up appointments, tests, or other checkups. If you feel like a treatment isn't working or isn't working as well as it used to, don't delay in seeing your doctor. The symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome can sometimes be subtle. You're the only one who knows when something isn't right.

Emergency: If you feel like you are having trouble breathing or swallowing, go to a hospital immediately or call 1990 (emergency ambulance service).

What questions should you ask your doctor?

Don't forget to ask these questions when you see the doctor:

• What type of Sjögren's syndrome do I have? (Primary or secondary?)
• What tests do I need to do?
• Will I need to see other specialists?
• What treatment do I need?
• What changes or symptoms should I look out for?

Managing Sjögren's syndrome can be frustrating at times. It can be frustrating to have dry eyes, dry mouth, or even vaginal dryness that makes sex painful. But the good news is that most people with Sjögren's syndrome can manage their symptoms well once they find a combination of treatments that work for them.

Finally, things to remember (Take-Home Message)

Sjögren's syndrome is a condition that can be somewhat uncomfortable, but can be controlled with proper management.

• You are not alone: ​​there are other people living with these conditions.
• The right treatment is important: Talk to your doctor to find the right treatment plan for you. You may need to try different treatments.
• Tell your doctor if your symptoms change: If your symptoms change, get worse, or seem to be affecting your daily activities too much, tell your doctor.
• Regular checkups: Ask your doctor how often you should have eye exams and dental exams. Regular checkups like these can help prevent complications.

I hope this information is helpful to you. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask a doctor.

` Sjögren's Syndrome, dry eyes, dry mouth, autoimmune, immune system, joint pain