Health Insights

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacks glands that produce secretions such as tears and saliva. Sjogren’s syndrome is classified into two types: primary and secondary. Primary Sjogren’s syndrome does not accompany any other autoimmune disorder and, as such, is easier…

Primary Sjogren’s syndrome (without any accompanying autoimmune disorder) is relatively easier to manage than the secondary type, which usually occurs in individuals already diagnosed with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, or polymyositis. Dealing with secondary Sjogren’s syndrome can…

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects glands producing secretions such as saliva and tears. It has been observed that a variety of factors can influence the personality and lead to psychological changes in patients affected by Sjogren’s syndrome. It is important that such psychological changes are…

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that affects the glands that make saliva and tears, causing such symptoms as dry eyes, dry mouth, and dry throat. Dryness in the mouth and throat due to poor saliva production leads to soreness, irritation, changes in the sense of taste, difficulty in…

Dry eyes are one of the most common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome — and can lead to discomfort, blurred vision, and visual fatigue if not attended to immediately. For people with the immune system disorder, inflammation of tear-secreting glands reduces tear production, resulting in chronic dry eye. Changes…

A lip biopsy, also called a labial gland biopsy, is used to help diagnose Sjogren’s syndrome. In this procedure, a few of the minor salivary glands inside the lower lip are removed and examined for signs of inflammation. Although relatively straightforward, the following points may help you to be…

Genetic diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome can be very hard to deal with for parents and caregivers of patients. Friends and family often find it hard to support caregivers who may feel exhausted or overwhelmed while constantly tending to those with the immune system disorder. Here are some tips…

The treatment process of rare autoimmune diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome can be challenging, and things can become more complicated with a lack of effective communication between the patient and the doctor. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your doctor’s visit. Identifying the right…

Information about Sjogren’s syndrome is often scarce, and being diagnosed with such a disease can leave patients and their caregivers with more questions than answers. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Sjogren’s syndrome, including its prevalence, inheritance, and treatment options. What is Sjogren’s syndrome? Sjogren’s syndrome…