Sjogren’s syndrome is a disorder of your immune system often defined by its two most common symptoms — dry eyes and a dry mouth. It often accompanies other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. In Sjogren’s syndrome, the mucous membranes and moisture-secreting glands of your eyes and mouth are usually affected first — resulting in decreased production of tears and saliva.
Because it the symptoms can often just be dry eyes, it is important for you to be aware of this condition and ask your eye doctor if and when testing is appropriate for Sjogren’s Syndrome.
Although you can develop Sjogren’s syndrome at any age, most people are older than 40 at the time of diagnosis. The condition is much more common in women. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, which often subside with time.
Symptoms vary from person to person but may include:
- a dry, gritty or burning sensation in the eyes
- dry mouth
- difficulty talking, chewing or swallowing
- a sore or cracked tongue
- dry or burning throat
- dry or peeling lips
- a change in taste or smell
- increased dental decay
- joint pain
- vaginal and skin dryness
- digestive problems
- dry nose
- fatigue
When to ask your eye doctor if testing is needed…As a rule of thumb for eye care providers, blood-work for looking for Sjogren’s Syndrome should be ordered if a patient has 1)experienced dry eye symptoms for >3 months, 2) has foreign body sensation in the eyes or 3) has low tear production (schirmer score of <5mm- this is test done in the office that easily measures your tear production) and 4) used artificial tears >3 x a day.
For more information visit this website www.sjogrens.org
I’d never heard of dry mouth AND dry eye might indicate Sjogren’s Syndrome. have had serious dry eye esp. since cataract removal & implants placed. had “clouding” per my eye dr., and May 2011 laser was done – both eyes. {am allergic to Restasis, using Refresh} By days end even the TV {32″} characters begin to blur/fuzzy appearing. Anyone know of “onlline help” or message boards for same? thank you- BETTY
Carol,
Just because you suffer from both dry mouth and dry eyes does not mean that you have Sjogren’s Syndrome because a lot of medications can also cause these symptoms. Cloudiness follow cataract surgery is common and it sounds like your treatment was needed. As far as other symptoms- blurry vision toward the end of the day- I find this to be a common symptoms with dryness. It’s impossible to offer you and opinion without an examination. If your symptoms aren’t improving with your current treatment, talk to your doctor about other options that might help.
Thanks for the comment!
Dr. O’Dell
http://www.mayeyecare.com