Living With Sjögren’s

Sjögren’s is a chronic autoimmune disease, which means the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissues. In the case of Sjögren’s, the immune system usually targets the glands that create moisture in the mouth (saliva) and the eyes (tears).2 It may also affect other parts of the body, including the lungs, liver, pancreas, kidneys, gastrointestinal system, central nervous system and blood vessels.

Because the symptoms may be similar to those of other conditions, Sjögren’s can be difficult to diagnose.

Common Sjögren’s symptoms may include:

• Dry eyes
• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth, dental problems
• Dry skin, rash
• Dry nasal passages and throat, and a dry cough
• Fatigue
• Joint and muscle pain, soreness
• Difficulty sleeping and/or night sweats
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Lymph node and/or salivary gland swelling
• Blood test abnormalities

Sjögren’s may occur along with other autoimmune diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. This condition is more common in women than in men but can be diagnosed in all ages, races and genders.