Sjogren's Syndrome.
Last updated Thursday, December 13, 2007
Figure 2 - Salivary glands may become swollen SymptomsSymptoms Sjogren's syndrome affects everyone differently. You may not have
every symptom listed here, and you may have only minor problems with
those you do have. The symptoms may seem worse at some times than at
others.
In people with no other health problems, the most common early symptom is the onset of severe dry mouth and eyes.
In people with rheumatoid arthritis or related conditions, dry eyes and mouth develop more slowly. In this case, Sjogren's may be difficult to diagnose.
Symptoms may include:
- Dry mouth
- The mouth normally contains saliva, which
aids chewing and swallowing. In people with Sjogren's syndrome, the
amount of saliva is much less. This makes chewing, swallowing, and
speaking difficult. It may also cause a decreased sense of taste.
- Dry eyes
- Your
eyes may feel dry, "gritty," or "sandy." They may burn and look red. A
thick substance may accumulate in the inner corner of your eyes while
you sleep. Your eyes may be more sensitive to sunlight. If not properly
treated, Sjogren's syndrome can lead to ulcers of the cornea (the clear
covering of the eyeball). On rare occasions, this can cause blindness.
- Swollen salivary glands
- There
are three set of glands that produce saliva. They're located under your
tongue, in the cheeks in front of your ears, and in the back of your
mouth. They may feel swollen and tender (see figure 2). This may occur
along with a fever. This affects about one-half of people with the
disorder.
- Dental cavities
- This is a common problem that
results from a dry mouth. Saliva fights bacteria and defends against
cavities. Because you have decreased saliva, your teeth may develop
cavities more easily.
- Dry nose, throat, and lungs
- This
may make your throat feel dry and tickly. You may have a dry cough,
hoarseness, a decreased sense of smell, and nosebleeds. It can also
lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, and ear problems.
- Dryness of the vagina
- This can cause painful intercourse for women with Sjogren's syndrome.
- Fatigue
- Fatigue is a common complaint. You may get easily exhausted and feel tired and worn out.
- Other problems
- Sjogren's
syndrome can affect other parts of the body, such as blood vessels, the
nervous system, muscles, skin, and other organs. This can lead to
muscle weakness, confusion and memory problems, dry skin, and feelings
of numbness and tingling.
Sjogren's syndrome can also affect the liver and pancreas. When it
does, there is a greater chance for developing cancer of the lymph
tissue. Although this is unusual, it is one reason why medical exams
and continued follow-up are important.
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