Sjögren’s Syndrome Treatment in Indore

Sjögren’s Syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the moisture-producing glands, primarily the salivary and lacrimal glands. This results in dry mouth and dry eyes and can affect other organs, leading to systemic complications.

SS can occur as:

Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome (pSS)-occurs alone, without another autoimmune disease.

Secondary Sjögren’s Syndrome (sSS) – Occurs alongside another autoimmune disease, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, or Scleroderma.

The disease is more common in women, usually between the ages of 40–60.

Aetiology & Risk Factors

1. Autoimmune Dysfunction

Immune cells mistakenly attack the exocrine glands, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.

2. Genetic Predisposition

A family history of autoimmune diseases increases risk.

HLA-DR and HLA-DQ are certain HLA genes associated with susceptibility.

3. Environmental Triggers

Viral infections may trigger an autoimmune response in genetically predisposed individuals.

4. Gender & Age

Women are affected 9 times more often than men.

Most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged adults.

How Sjögren's Syndrome Affects the Body

The immune system attacks the salivary and lacrimal glands, reducing saliva and tears.

Long-standing inflammation may cause kidney, lung, liver, and nervous system damage.

Systemic inflammation can lead to fatigue, joint pain, and organ complications.

Long-term dryness increases the risk of dental decay, oral infections, and eye damage.

Symptoms

Classic Symptoms

Dry mouth (xerostomia) → difficulty speaking, swallowing, tasting

Dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) → irritation, burning, blurred vision

Gritty sensation in the eyes

Systemic Symptoms

Fatigue and weakness

Joint pains and stiffness

Swelling of salivary glands (parotid swelling)

Other Organ Involvement

Lungs: Interstitial lung disease, chronic cough.

Kidneys: Tubular dysfunction, nephritis

Liver: Autoimmune hepatitis

Nervous System: Peripheral neuropathy, cognitive difficulties

Skin: dryness, rashes

Oral Complications

Increased dental caries, oral infections, and complications with denture fit

Complications

Dental decay and oral infections

Eye infections and corneal damage

Lymphoma (rare but higher risk in SS patients)

Involved organs: lungs, kidneys, liver, and nervous system.

Persistent fatigue and reduced quality of life

History

Clinical Examination

Assessment of Sicca- dry eyes and mouth

Swollen salivary glands

Blood Tests

Anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies

ANA: Antinuclear antibody

Rheumatoid factor (if secondary SS)

Eye Examinations

Schirmer’s test – measures tear production

Eye staining to check for corneal damage

Salivary Gland Tests

Sialography or salivary scintigraphy

Minor salivary gland biopsy for confirmation of lymphocytic infiltration

Other Tests

Imaging or lab tests for organ involvement in case of systemic symptoms

Medical Treatment CONVENTIONAL

1. Symptomatic Treatment

Artificial tears, lubricating gels and ointments for dry eyes

Saliva Substitutes, Sugar Free Lozenges & Fluids For Xerostomia

2. Medications

Pilocarpine or Cevimeline: Stimulate saliva and tear production

NSAIDs: Relieve joint pain and inflammation

Corticosteroids or Immunosuppressants: For systemic involvement

Hydroxychloroquine relieves fatigue and joint symptoms.

3. Organ-Specific Treatment

Lung, kidney, or liver complications that were managed with targeted therapies

Lifestyle & Supportive Care

1. Oral Hygiene

Regular dental check-ups

Fluoride treatments to prevent dental caries

Good oral hygiene

2. Eye Care

Regular eye exams

Avoid environmental dryness (fans, air conditioning)

3. Diet & Hydration

Drink water regularly

Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which increase dryness.

Soft foods that are easy to swallow

4. Exercise & Stress Management

Yoga, stretching, and moderate exercise

Meditation and stress reduction improve overall well-being.

5. Complementary Approaches

Homeopathy, Ayurveda, and herbal remedies may support symptom relief, reduce dryness, and improve immunity as complementary therapy

Prognosis: Sjögren’s Syndrome is chronic, and there is no cure. The quality of life may be maintained with appropriate management of patients. Regular monitoring is essential to prevent complications like dental decay, eye damage, and organ involvement. Early treatment of systemic symptoms improves the long-term outcome.