• Who is most likely to develop Sjögren's syndrome (SS)?

Nine of ten (SS) patients are women. The average age of diagnosis is late 40's although it can occur in all age groups in both sexes.

• What are the symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome?

Symptoms may include a dry, gritty or burning sensation in the eyes; difficulty in talking, chewing or swallowing; a sore or cracked tongue; dry or burning throat; a change in the sense of taste or smell; increased dental decay; joint pain; digestive problems; dry nose; dry skin & fatigue. No two people have the same exact set of symptoms.

• Is it easy to diagnose Sjögren's syndrome?

Sjögren's syndrome is often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. The symptoms of SS may overlap or “mimic” those of other diseases including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and multiple sclerosis. Because all symptoms are not always present at the same time and Sjögren's can involve several body systems, physicians and dentists sometimes treat each symptom individually and do not recognize that a systemic disease is present. The average time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis is over six years in the USA.

• What kind of doctor treats Sjögren's?

Rheumatologists have primary responsibility for managing Sjögren's syndrome. Ophthalmologists, dentists and other specialists also can treat symptoms related to Sjögren's.

• How is Sjögren's syndrome diagnosed?

Once Sjögren's syndrome is suspected, you may have to undergo a series of blood tests, including:

• ANA (Anti-Nuclear Antibody): About 70% of Sjögren's syndrome patients have elevated antibodies that react against normal components of a cell's nucleus.

• SS-A (or Ro) and SS-B (or La):  70% of patients are positive for SS-A and 40% positive for SS-B.

• RF (Rheumatoid Factor):  60-70% of patients have a positive RF. 

• ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate): Measures inflammation.

• IGs (Immunoglobulins): Normal blood proteins, usually elevated in Sjögren's syndrome.

The Ophtalmologic tests include:

• Schirmer Test: Measures tears production.

• Rose Bengal and Lissamine Green: Dyes to observe abnormal cells on the surface of the eye.

• Slit-Lamp Exam for assessing the health of the cornea.

The dental tests include:

• Parotid Gland Flow: Measures the amount of saliva produced over a certain period of time.

• Salivary Scintigraphy: Measures salivary gland function.

• Sialography: An x-ray of the salivary-duct system.

• Lip Biopsy: Confirms lymphocytic infiltration of the minor salivary glands. This test is needed for a confirmed diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome.

• What treatments are available?

Over the counter products for relieving dry eyes and dry mouth are available. Prescription drugs are available for systemic symptoms, depending on the nature and severity of the condition.

• What else can be done?

High quality professional dental and eye care are extremely important. Lifestyle changes and use of protective gear such as wrap around goggles help in relieving symptoms. Often, patients learn useful tips from one another in support group meetings.

• Will I die from Sjögren's syndrome?

Sjögren's syndrome is serious but generally not fatal if complications are diagnosed and treated  early. In one study the incidence of lymphoma (cancer of the lymph glands) was 44 times higher in people with Sjögren's syndrome than in the general population. Sjögren's syndrome patients must be monitored carefully for development of related autoimmune diseases, lymphoma, and other complications.

• Is there a cure?

Not yet. But with your help, there will be