Do I Have Sjogren’s Syndrome?

Do you have burning, itching or gritty feeling in your eyes, as if there's sand in them?

Do you have a dry mouth?

Does your mouth feel like it's full of cotton, making it difficult to swallow or speak?

Do you have rheumatoid arthritis or lupus?

Do you have pain, swelling and stiffness in your joints?

Do you have swollen salivary glands — particularly the set located behind your jaw and in front of your ears?

Do you have dry nasal passages?

Do you have skin rashes (especially after being in the sun) or dry skin?

Do you have dry throat or persistent dry cough?

Do you have vaginal dryness?

Do you have difficulty swallowing and symptoms of acid reflux (heartburn, stomach discomfort or regurgitation)?

Do you have prolonged fatigue?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have Sjogren’s syndrome. Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of your body, but most often affects glands that make tears and saliva. It is ten times more common in women than men and the symptoms usually appear after the age of 45. The severity of symptoms can vary, but most people with Sjögren's syndrome are able to live a normal life. People with Sjogren’s syndrome, who have another autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus have “secondary” Sjogren’s syndrome. People who have this condition but no other autoimmune disease have “primary” Sjogren’s syndrome.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have Sjogren’s syndrome. Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition that usually affects different areas of your body that produce fluids, including tears and saliva. It is also known as sicca syndrome because it causes your eyes and mouth, as well as other parts of your body, to become dry. It is a lifelong disease that requires daily care. Most people with Sjogren’s remain healthy without serious problems. Diagnosing Sjogren’s can be difficult. The symptoms can differ from person to person and can be similar to the symptoms of other illnesses or to side effects of some medications.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have Sjogren’s syndrome. Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterized by two main symptoms, which are dry eyes and dry mouth. Decreased production of tears and saliva can induce various complications. People who have dry eyes are prone to infection that can cause vision problems such as sensitivity to light, blurred vision and corneal damage. Dry mouth can be the cause of increased dental decay and a yeast infection in your mouth (oral thrush). Treatment is designed to relieve your symptoms and includes artificial tears, increased fluid intake and prescribed medications.