NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS - Sjogren's Syndrome

Medic8® Neurological Disorders

"Medic8.com - Your trusted source for health information online"

HEALTH GUIDES
Cosmetic Surgery Cosmetic Dentistry Family Health Health Insurance Laser Eye Surgery Life Insurance Travel Health
MEDICAL A TO Z
Alternative Medicine Blood Disorders Cancer Dental Disorders Diabetes Digestive Disorders Ear & Hearing Disorders Endocrine Disorders Eye Disorders Genetic Disorders Heart Disorders Infectious Diseases Kidney Disorders Lung Disorders Mental Health Neurological Disorders Skin, Bone & Muscle Disorders Sleep Disorders
TOPICS/THEMES
Allergies Alternative Health Arthritis Asthma Blood Disorders Bones & Joints Bowel & Abdominal Problems Cancer Chest Problems Child Health Circulation Problems Cosmetic Surgery Diabetes Diet & Nutrition Drug Addiction Ear, Nose, & Throat Problems Elderly Health Eye Problems Heart Problems High Blood Pressure Hormone & Endocrine Problems Infections Infertility Liver Problems Medications Men's Health Mental Health Nervous System Personal & Social Issues Pregnancy & Birth Preventive Health Radiology Sexual Health Skin Problems Sports Medicine Surgery Travel Health Urinary & Kidney Problems Vaccination Women's Health
MISCELLANEOUS
Medic8 Search Terms Of Use About Medic8

Sjogren's Syndrome

What is Sjogren's Syndrome?

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which immune cells attack and destroy the glands that produce tears and saliva. Sjogren's syndrome is also associated with rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. The hallmark symptoms of the disorder are dry mouth and dry eyes. In addition, Sjogren's syndrome may cause skin, nose, and vaginal dryness, and may affect other organs of the body including the kidneys, blood vessels, lungs, liver, pancreas, and brain.

Sjogren's syndrome affects 1-4 million people in the United States. Most people are more than 40 years old at the time of diagnosis. Women are 9 times more likely to have Sjogren's syndrome than men.

Is there any treatment?

There is no known cure for Sjogren's syndrome nor is there a specific treatment to restore gland secretion. Treatment is generally symptomatic and supportive. Moisture replacement therapies may ease the symptoms of dryness. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to treat musculoskeletal symptoms. For individuals with severe complications, corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs may be prescribed.

What is the prognosis?

Sjogren's syndrome can damage vital organs of the body with symptoms that may remain stable, worsen, or go into remission. Some people may experience only the mild symptoms of dry eyes and mouth, while others go through cycles of good health followed by severe disease. Many patients are able to treat problems symptomatically. Others are forced to cope with blurred vision, constant eye discomfort, recurrent mouth infections, swollen parotid glands, hoarseness, and difficulty in swallowing and eating. Debilitating fatigue and joint pain can seriously impair quality of life.

Medic8® Neurological Disorders

Page last modified: September 2006

Source: NINDS/NIH

Online Guides

Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic Dentistry

Family Health

Laser Eye Surgery

Medical Insurance

Life Insurance

Travel Guide

Mortgage Guide

DISCLAIMER: This guide is provided for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. We are not responsible or liable for any diagnosis or action made by a user based on the content of this website. We are not liable for the contents of any external websites listed, nor do we endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your own doctor if you are in any way concerned about your health.

LEGAL CONDITIONS AND TERMS OF USE ARE APPLICABLE TO ALL USERS OF THIS GUIDE/WEBSITE. ANY USE OF THIS GUIDE CONSTITUTES YOUR AGREEMENT TO THESE TERMS OF USE. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PART OF THIS WEBSITE BY ANY MEANS, INCLUDING ELECTRONIC, IS EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT.

- Medic8 - Health Guide - A to Z - Medical Dictionary - Terms Of Use - Privacy - About -