Sjögren's Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments for Severe Dry Eye


In this article, we’re diving into one of the most severe conditions that can lead to dry eye disease—Sjögren's syndrome. We’ll cover what Sjögren's syndrome is, how doctors diagnose it, how it affects the eyes, and the potential treatments available.

What is Sjögren's Syndrome?

Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells. This condition primarily affects women in their 40s and 50s, but it can also impact men and even younger women in their 20s. The syndrome targets the lacrimal glands, which produce tears, and the parotid glands, which produce saliva. This attack can also affect any mucous membrane in the body.

Symptoms of Sjögren's Syndrome

Because the lacrimal glands are under attack, people with Sjögren's syndrome often suffer from severe dry eye, known as aqueous-deficient dry eye. This is different from evaporative dry eye, where tears evaporate too quickly. Some individuals might experience a combination of both types.

In addition to dry eyes, the parotid glands' reduced function can lead to dry mouth. This can make swallowing food difficult, often requiring water to help. Some people wake up at night due to a parched mouth, and in extreme cases, they may develop mouth sores or increased cavities.

Diagnosing Sjögren's Syndrome

Doctors typically diagnose Sjögren's syndrome through blood tests, looking for specific markers like anti-SSA, anti-SSB (also known as Ro and La), rheumatoid factor, and ANA. While these tests can confirm the condition, a negative result doesn't always rule it out if symptoms are strong.

Treatment Options

Unfortunately, there’s currently no cure for Sjögren's syndrome. It’s a complex condition often linked with other diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and an increased risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. This is why it’s crucial for anyone diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome to be under the care of a rheumatologist, who can monitor the condition and prescribe medications to manage symptoms.

Impact on the Eyes

The dry eye caused by Sjögren's syndrome is so severe that it’s classified as keratoconjunctivitis sicca. This isn’t just a case of red, irritated eyes—it can lead to significant inflammation and damage to the eye’s surface, potentially causing permanent vision loss.

While artificial tears are often recommended, they’re usually insufficient for people with Sjögren's syndrome. These individuals often require additional treatments, such as:

  • Topical Cyclosporine: Medications like Restasis or Cequa help the lacrimal glands produce tears.
  • Punctal Plugs: Small silicone plugs are inserted into the tear ducts to keep tears on the eye's surface longer.
  • Advanced Treatments: These may include amniotic membranes, long-term use of topical steroids, or specialized scleral contact lenses that retain moisture on the eye.

Connect and Learn More

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by Sjögren's syndrome or have questions about dry eye treatments, leave a comment below. Share your experiences or ask any questions you have—I’m here to help and would love to connect with you. Your questions may even inspire future content for this channel.

For more information on dry eye, check out my full series by clicking the screen on the side. If you’re interested in other eye care topics, click the screen below. This is Dr. Allen from Doctor Eye Health, helping you learn all about your eyes and vision. Keep an eye on it, and we’ll talk again soon.

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