Sjogren’s Syndrome
About Sjogren’s Syndrome: Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment in Encinitas, CA
Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center is conveniently located in Encinitas, California, serving communities throughout the area. We offer advanced treatments for a variety of conditions, including Sjogren’s Syndrome.
What is Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Sjogren’s syndrome is one of the more common autoimmune diseases. It can be a primary condition or secondary to another autoimmune disease. The disease occurs when specific immune cells, such as CD4+ T-cells and B-cells, invade the exocrine glands and other body tissues.
Sjogren’s syndrome affects women more commonly than men and can occur at any age. The disease is usually subtle at onset and progresses very slowly over time. Most patients will suffer from the disease for years before an official diagnosis is made. Sjogren’s syndrome is mainly treated by a rheumatologist; however, other practitioners are commonly involved in patient care, including dentists, ophthalmologists, and neurologists.
Understanding Sjogren's Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Hello, I’m Dr. Peter Lloyd, a rheumatologist in Encinitas, California. Today, I want to take a few moments to talk with you about Sjogren’s syndrome. A condition that affects many yet often goes unrecognized. Sjogren’s syndrome is a common autoimmune disease that can occur alone or alongside another autoimmune condition. It results from immune cells such as CD4+ T-cells and B-cells mistakenly attacking the body’s exocrine glands and tissues, leading to a range of symptoms. Now, who does this affect? It is more prevalent in women than men and can occur at any age. Its symptoms appear gradually, making early diagnosis challenging. The most common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome are dry eyes and dry mouth. Some individuals may also experience swollen parotid glands or pain during intercourse. It can also cause joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, and nerve pain. Some patients may develop vasculitis, thyroid dysfunction, or Raynaud’s phenomenon. Diagnosing Sjogren’s syndrome requires a thorough approach, including evaluating symptoms, blood tests, and eye tests. In some cases, salivary gland ultrasound or a biopsy may be needed. Treatment for Sjogren’s syndrome is personalized based on individual symptoms. It often involves disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, and prednisone. In some cases, intravenous immunoglobulin or biologics might be recommended. If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, I encourage you to reach out to us. At Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center, early diagnosis and personalized treatment can make a significant difference.
Signs and symptoms
Typical manifestations include dry eyes, dry mouth, parotid gland enlargement, and pain with intercourse. Other symptoms will include joint pains, fatigue, rash, signs of peripheral neuropathy (nerve pain), vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels), thyroid dysfunction, and Raynaud’s phenomenon (color changes of the fingers due to cold temperatures). Patients with Sjogren’s syndrome are also at risk for developing B-cell lymphoma.
Diagnosis and treatment
A diagnosis of Sjogren’s is made using a combination of clinical symptoms, blood tests, eye tests, salivary gland ultrasound, and, at times, salivary gland biopsy.
Treatment will vary from patient to patient, depending on the symptoms manifested.
- Eye drops or ointments are usually helpful as a first-line therapy for dry eyes. Restasis can also be helpful and is usually covered by insurance. Punctal occlusion performed by an ophthalmologist may also be considered.
- Patients who suffer from dry mouth should follow a very strict dental hygiene routine. Saliva has protective properties that keep teeth strong and fight tooth decay. Oral wetting agents may also be helpful.
- The treatments for extraglandular manifestations will also vary depending on the symptoms.
Therapies used in the treatment of Sjogren’s syndrome may include disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, prednisone, IVIG, and biologics.
Because every case is unique, treatment is tailored to your specific needs. Call us at 760-509-2429 to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you.
