What is Secondary Sjögren's Syndrome?
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterized by the body's immune system mistakenly attacking its own moisture-producing glands, leading to dry mouth and dry eyes. Secondary Sjögren's syndrome occurs in conjunction with other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or scleroderma. This differentiates it from primary Sjögren's syndrome, which occurs independently without the presence of another autoimmune condition.
Individuals with secondary Sjögren's syndrome often experience a combination of the symptoms of both the primary syndrome and the associated autoimmune disease. Common symptoms may include persistent dryness in the mouth and eyes, fatigue, joint pain, and swelling. The condition can also affect other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, liver, and nervous system.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests, including blood tests to detect specific autoantibodies. Biopsy of the salivary glands may also be conducted to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options focus on managing symptoms and may include medications to stimulate saliva production, artificial tears, and immunosuppressive therapies to manage the underlying autoimmune condition.
As a chronic autoimmune disease, secondary Sjögren's syndrome can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Ongoing medical management and multidisciplinary care are essential for improving symptoms and enhancing overall well-being.