Does anyone have sjogrens. If so what are the flares like?

Answer 1

Fortunately i do not have this condition to go along with my Rheumatoid arthritis, but i have lots of friends who do. I would like to recommend the site 4ratalk.com. it is a forum with lots of great people, people who do great research and it has info about all sorts of autoimmune diseases and conditions...I am positive they can give you more info that will help!!!

4ratalk.com!

good luck!

Answer 2

What Is It?

Sjogren's syndrome (show-GRENS SIN-drome) is an autoimmune disease that causes dry eyes and a dry mouth.

What Are the Symptoms?

Dry eyes/mouth
Swelling
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Dry cough
Cavities
Oral yeast infections
Dry nose, throat and lungs
Fatigue
What Causes It?

Although cause is unknown, heredity, viral infection and hormones may be contributing factors.

What Are the Effects?

In Sjogren's the body's defense system turns against itself and attacks glands that produce moisture. Sjogren's occurs in two forms:

Primary occurs alone, not associated with any other disease.
Secondary occurs with rheumatic diseases such as polymyositis, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus
How Is It Diagnosed?

Medical exam
Lab tests
Chest X-rays
Lip biopsy
Schirmer test/slit-lamp exam (measures dryness of eyes)
Urine test (for kidney function)
Treatment Options

Medications: aspirin, plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine), NSAIDs
Exercise
For dry mouth, sip water throughout the day; seek treatment for oral yeast infections; use saliva substitutes; and have frequent dental visits to prevent cavities.
For dry eyes, use artificial tears, eye ointments.
For dry skin, use moisturizers
For vaginal dryness, use lubricating jelly
Who Is At Risk?

It primarily affects women over the age of 45 and rarely affects anyone under age 20.

Cautions

If you are a woman with Sjogren's syndrome and plan to become pregnant, you should check with your doctor. He may check for an antibody that can cause heart problems in newborn babies.