10 Major Symptoms Of Sjogren’s Syndrome

A Sjogren’s syndrome is a kind of autoimmune disease in which inflammation of the body glands and tissues takes place. In this disease, extra antibodies are produced in the blood which attacks various body tissues.

This disease especially leads to inflammation of the lacrimal glands which produces tears and salivary glands which is responsible for producing saliva. Inflammation of both the glands leads to decreased tears and saliva production in the body.

Dry mouth and dry eyes are the main symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome. Mostly old age women are more prone to get affected by Sjogren’s syndrome. Some of the symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome are-

Symptoms Of Sjogren’s Syndrome

 

Dry Mouth

Our mouth contains saliva which helps in chewing and swallowing food, you will notice that in a person suffering from Sjogren’s syndrome the amount of saliva will be comparatively less as compared to others.

This ultimately leads to chewing and swallowing problems. The patient will feel difficulty even while speaking. The sense of taste also decreases and the patient will always complain of dry mouth.

Dry Eyes

Sjogren’s syndrome affected patient will feel a painful burning and tingling sensation in the eyes. The eyes get very itchy and start looking tired. The person will feel as if there is a piece of gravel or sand dust in their eyes. The eyelids also get swollen up.

If the problem of dry eyes is left untreated for a long time then this may lead to severe eye complications like eye infections, corneal ulcer, and even loss of vision.

Swelling of Salivary Glands

The salivary gland located between the eyes and jaw line on each side of the face gets swollen up and can be noticed even by others.

Hoarseness

If the vocal cord of the patient is affected by Sjogren’s syndrome and gets inflamed due to throat dryness and dry coughing, then it may develop hoarseness. The voice becomes extremely hoarse.

Vaginal Dryness

Vaginal dryness especially in women is a very common symptom of Sjogren’s syndrome. This may result in painful intercourse.

Oral infections And Dental Cavities

You will notice that a person suffering from Sjogren’s syndrome will suffer from oral infections and dental cavity problems. Saliva protects teeth from bacteria and cavities.

As saliva secretion is very less in a Sjogren’s syndrome affected patient’s mouth, teeth cavities develops at a very fast pace and leads to oral infections.

Fatigue And Tiredness

Fatigue and tiredness are the common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome. The patient gets totally exhausted and tired after doing a very simple physical activity. In some cases, it is even accompanied by slight fever.

Muscle And Joint Pain

An individual suffering from Sjogren’s syndrome will complain of aching muscles and joints. The muscles and joints swell up and become stiff which makes it difficult and painful to move the body.

Skin Problems

The skin of a Sjogren’s syndrome affected person gets extremely dry and as a result rashes also develop on the skin.

Memory Problems

The memory of the patient is also affected and leads to problems like memory loss, confusion, and loss of concentration.