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Sjogren's Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking the glands that produce moisture, leading to severe dryness in the eyes and mouth.
read more about sjogrens syndrome ...The role of the autoimmune system is central; it attacks and damages the exocrine glands, specifically the lacrimal glands (which produce tears) and the salivary glands. This damage leads to a significant and lasting reduction in the production of tears and saliva, which is the defining feature of the condition.
Main symptoms include chronic, severe dry eyes (often described as a sandy or gritty feeling) and dry mouth (which can make swallowing or speaking difficult). The lack of tear production causes ongoing corneal irritation, while reduced saliva greatly increases the risk of dental decay and infection.
Diagnosis is complex and involves ruling out other autoimmune conditions. Tests include a Schirmer test (to measure tear production) and blood tests to check for specific antibodies. A lip biopsy may also be performed to examine the salivary glands.
Sjogren's Syndrome severely impacts eye health, as the lack of tear production causes chronic damage to the cornea. Patients are highly susceptible to foreign body sensation, light sensitivity, and corneal abrasion, requiring intensive artificial tear use.
Management focuses on replacing moisture and suppressing the autoimmune response. Treatment includes prescription eye drops (to stimulate tear production) and immunosuppressive medications. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding dry environments, are also necessary.
No, it is a rare disorder, but it is often linked to other autoimmune diseases like Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Wearing standard contact lenses is often difficult due to the lack of tears. Specialized scleral lenses may be used to hold moisture over the cornea.
Yes, the disorder can also cause dryness of the skin, nose, and vagina, as well as joint pain.
Consult an ophthalmologist if your eyes feel constantly "gritty." Sjogren's causes extreme "Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca" (dry eye). Without treatment, the dryness can cause corneal ulcers or scarring. A "Schirmer's Test" is often used to measure your tear production for diagnosis.
AAO. What is Sj?gren's Syndrome? (aao.org). 2024.
National Eye Institute. Sj?gren's Syndrome (nei.nih.gov). 2024.
Mayo Clinic. Sjogren's Symptoms (mayoclinic.org). 2024.
StatPearls. Sjogren Syndrome (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). 2025.