Unusually Dry Eyes and Mouth? Could Be Sjogren’s

Occasional dry eyes or dry mouth is normal. In some cases, the issue can be as easy to resolve as drinking a glass of water or adding a humidifier to the room. But it’s not always that simple. 

Sjogren’s syndrome is a medical condition that causes chronic dryness of the mucous membranes, and it can lead to some serious consequences if it goes unaddressed. Here’s how to identify the autoimmune disease and what to do about it.

What Is Sjogren’s Syndrome?

Sjogren’s syndrome causes an autoimmune assault on the mucous membranes, meaning the body’s own immune system is responsible for the problem. The eyes and mouth are common targets, although this condition can also affect additional areas, including the lungs, joints, nerves, kidneys, blood vessels and even the gastrointestinal tract.

Experts still don’t know precisely why some people develop Sjogren’s, but a combination of genetic factors and certain viral triggers could be responsible in many cases. It’s about 10 times more common in women than men, and symptoms usually first occur between the ages of 45 and 55.

Possible Complications of Sjogren's Syndrome

Sjogren’s can manifest differently in every patient. Some may have very few complications, but others can lead to serious issues. Most notably:

• Extreme dry mouth can lead to tooth decay, gum infection and difficulties swallowing.
• Chronic dry eyes, according to Mayo Clinic, can cause blurry vision, light sensitivity and damage to the corneas.
• Vaginal dryness is a common problem among women with Sjogren’s and can lead to problems in intimacy.
• Inflammation in the lungs can cause complications similar to pneumonia.
• Kidney involvement can cause issues with organ functioning.
• Liver problems can include autoimmune hepatitis and cirrhosis.
• Peripheral nerve inflammation can cause burning or tingling sensations in the hands or feet, and sometimes muscle weakness.
• Gastrointestinal manifestations, including gastritis, pancreatitis and irritable bowel syndrome, occur in as many as 25 percent of Sjogren’s patients.

Living with Sjogren's Syndrome

Sjogren’s is diagnosed based on results from blood tests, eye dryness tests and saliva gland biopsies.

Much of relieving Sjogren’s symptoms relies on addressing problem areas and developing strategies to reduce dryness and inflammation. Sipping on water throughout the day can help with dry mouth, as can chewing gum or sucking on sugar-free candy. Oral rinses like Biotene, which lubricate the mouth, may also help.

Patients with severe dry eye symptoms may opt for medicated eye drops that increase lubrication and reduce inflammation. Those with systemic issues affecting joints or vital organs may need to take prescription medications to reduce their autoimmune activity.

Sjogren’s disease can be difficult to live with, but with the right diagnosis and symptom management — especially if they come early on — most patients can live normal, healthy lives. Sufferers may need rheumatologist referrals to get on the right track. If you suspect Sjogren's Syndrome, see a general practitioner for help getting started.

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