Sjögren’s Syndrome Treatment in Karnal

Causes of Sjögren's Syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome arises from an autoimmune dysfunction, wherein the immune system erroneously attacks the body’s own cells and tissues.

The exact reason behind the development of Sjogren’s syndrome in certain individuals remains uncertain to scientists. While specific genes increase the susceptibility to the disorder, it appears that an additional triggering mechanism, such as an infection with a particular virus or strain of bacteria, is also required.

In Sjogren’s syndrome, the immune system initially targets the glands responsible for tear and saliva production. However, it can also inflict damage on other parts of the body, including:

• Joints
• Thyroid
• Kidneys
• Liver
• Lungs
• Skin
• Nerves

Risk Factors:

Factors contributing to the development of Sjogren’s syndrome generally include the following:

• Age: Sjogren’s syndrome tends to be diagnosed predominantly in individuals over the age of 40.
• Gender: Women are significantly more susceptible to developing Sjogren’s syndrome.
• Rheumatic disease: It is frequently observed that individuals with Sjogren’s syndrome also have a concurrent rheumatic condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

Complications

The primary complications associated with Sjogren’s syndrome involve the eyes and mouth.

• Dental decay: Due to decreased saliva production, individuals with dry mouths are more susceptible to developing cavities caused by bacteria.
• Yeast infections: People with Sjogren’s syndrome are at a higher risk of experiencing oral thrush, which is a yeast infection in the mouth.
• Visual impairments: Insufficient tear production can result in sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and damage to the cornea.

Less frequently occurring complications may affect:

• Respiratory system, kidneys, or liver: Inflammation can lead to conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, or other respiratory issues; impede kidney function; and cause hepatitis or cirrhosis in the liver.
• Lymph nodes: A small percentage of individuals with Sjogren’s syndrome may develop lymphoma, a type of cancer affecting the lymph nodes.
• Nervous system: Peripheral neuropathy, characterized by numbness, tingling, and a burning sensation in the hands and feet, can occur.

How is Sjögren's syndrome diagnosed?

If you experience symptoms such as dry mouth, dry eyes, or other indicators of Sjögren’s syndrome, your doctor may employ the following methods to confirm a diagnosis:

• Blood tests: These tests identify specific antibodies in your blood, including anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-Sjögren’s syndrome antibodies (anti-SSA or anti-Ro), anti-Sjögren’s syndrome type B (anti-SSB or anti-La), and rheumatoid factor (common in rheumatoid arthritis patients).
• Biopsy: Your doctor may extract tissue or cells from your salivary gland or the inner lining of your lip. The collected sample is then sent to a laboratory to examine for signs of inflammation.
• Eye exam: An eye specialist, such as an ophthalmologist, can assess tear production and evaluate the cornea for dryness during an eye examination.
• Imaging tests: These tests may include sialometry, which measures saliva production using X-rays after injecting dye into the salivary glands, as well as salivary scintigraphy, a method that tracks the time it takes for a radioactive isotope to travel from a vein injection point to the salivary glands.
• Health history: If you have a pre-existing autoimmune disease, along with dry eyes and dry mouth, your doctor may deduce that you have developed secondary Sjögren’s syndrome.

How is Sjögren’s syndrome managed or treated?

Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the moisture-producing glands in the body, leading to symptoms such as dry eyes, dry mouth, and dryness in other parts of the body. While there is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome, treatment aims to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for affected individuals. Here are some common approaches to managing and treating Sjögren’s syndrome:

Symptomatic Relief:

• Dry Eyes: Artificial tears, lubricating eye drops, and ointments can provide relief for dry and irritated eyes. In some cases, prescription medications like cyclosporine eye drops may be used.
• Dry Mouth: Frequent sips of water, chewing sugar-free gum, using saliva substitutes, and maintaining good oral hygiene can help manage dry mouth symptoms. Medications that stimulate saliva production may be prescribed in severe cases.
• Dry Skin and Vaginal Dryness: Moisturizers and lubricants can help alleviate dryness in these areas.

Dental Care:

• Regular dental visits are essential to manage oral health and prevent complications such as tooth decay and gum disease.
• Saliva stimulants and fluoride treatments may be recommended to prevent tooth decay caused by reduced saliva production.

Eye Care:

• Regular visits to an eye care professional are important to monitor and manage dry eye symptoms.
• Punctal plugs, which block tear drainage ducts, may be inserted to help retain tears on the eye’s surface.
• Prescription medications or immunomodulatory eye drops may be used for severe cases.

Systemic Complications:

If Sjögren’s syndrome affects other organs or systems, such as the lungs, kidneys, or nervous system, additional treatments may be required to manage those specific complications.

Collaborating with various specialists, such as rheumatologists, ophthalmologists, dentists, and other healthcare professionals, can provide comprehensive care for these systemic complications.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Managing stress, getting regular exercise, maintaining a well-balanced diet, and avoiding triggers that worsen symptoms can help improve overall well-being.

Using humidifiers in dry environments and protecting oneself from extreme temperatures can also provide some relief.

It’s crucial for individuals with Sjögren’s syndrome to work closely with their healthcare team to develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to their specific symptoms and needs. Regular follow-up appointments and open communication with Dr. Anil Chauhan can help optimize the management of this chronic condition.