Sjögren's Syndrome

Overview

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the exocrine glands, leading to dry mouth and dry eyes. Other features include dry skin, chronic cough, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain, with an increased risk of lymphoma.

Symptoms

• Dry mouth
• Dry eyes
• Dental caries
• Joint pain
• Parotid gland swelling

Treatment

Management is mainly symptomatic replacement therapy with artificial tears and saliva substitutes; immunosuppressants are added in severe cases.

Dietary advice

Drink plenty of fluids and eat foods that promote moisture and salivation; avoid spicy, dry, and irritating foods.