Therefore, since there is no way to prevent Sjogren’s syndrome itself then its symptoms must be dealt with.  The symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome include:

• Dry mouth
• Dry eyes
• Digestive problems
• Vaginal dryness
• Kidney problems
• Nerve problems
• Fatigue
• Skin rashes
• Thyroid problems
• Dry nose
• Joint and muscle pain
• Numbness and/or tingling in the extremities
• Sore and/or cracked tongue
• Dry and/or burning throat
• Increased dental decay

Not everyone with Sjogren’s syndrome has the listed symptoms; however, the majority do suffer from dry eyes and dry mouth.

Remedies for dry eyes include the use of artificial tears.  Artificial tears provide temporary relief from the redness, itchiness, and pain of dry eyes. The symptoms of dry eyes can also be alleviated by avoiding areas with low humidity and drafts from air conditioners and fans.  Avoiding areas with excessive smoke and dust can also decrease the symptoms of dry eyes.  Women with dry eyes caused by Sjogren’s syndrome should avoid wearing excessive make-up around the eyes because this irritates the eyes and causes dryness.  One should also dry to blink frequently as blinking increases the moisture within the eye.  Excessive strain on the eyes will cause them to become dry.  Taking short breaks from reading and/or working on a computer helps to eliminate the strain on the eyes.

The second most common symptom of Sjogren’s syndrome is having a dry mouth.  Some remedies for a dry mouth include brushing the oral cavity after every meal and flossing daily.  Dry mouth can also be alleviated by chewing sugarless gum and eating sugarless candy.  Chewing sugarless gum and eating sugarless candy stimulates the secretion of saliva within the mouth and also decreases the risk of tooth decay.  Drinking plenty of water also helps the body to stay hydrated and keeps the mouth moist.  Avoid the use of drinks which are full of sugar as these types of drinks have been known to dry out the mouth.  It is also good to avoid consuming excessive amounts of sugary, salty, and spicy foods as this may make the dry mouth worse.  If these simple remedies fail, a doctor may prescribe an oral medication that increases the secretion of saliva.  These medications have been known to only work for a few hours at a time.

Even though Sjogren’s syndrome cannot be prevented there are some simple remedies to help alleviate the symptoms and problems that are caused by Sjogren’s syndrome.

There are approximately four million Americans living with Sjogren’s syndrome.  So what is Sjogren’s syndrome?  This disease which is pronounced “SHOW-grins” is an autoimmune disease that affects the white blood cells within the body and destroys the moisture producing glands.  These moisture producing glands include the tear glands and the saliva glands.  These glands become scarred and are damaged which results in dry eyes and a dry mouth.  When the eyes become dry they begin to burn, itch, and also become red.  Vision may be blurry and it will be uncomfortable to look at bright light.  The eyes may feel like they have sand in them.  The dry mouth symptom will cause difficulty in swallowing, speaking, and tasting.  The sense of smell may also be affected.  A dry cough may also develop over a period of time.  Dry mouth will also prevent the production of saliva; therefore, the chances are higher of developing a mouth infection of cavities.

Sjogren’s syndrome causes the body’s immune to attack its own tissue as if it were a foreign substance.  The exact cause of Sjogren’s syndrome is unknown; however Sjogren’s syndrome occurs in both men and women of all races.  Sjogren’s syndrome is most common in white women who are in their forties and fifties.  Those suffering from Sjogren’s syndrome may have fatigue and pain in the joints; however, in rare cases people suffer problems with lung, kidney, and nerve function.

There is no true cause of Sjogren’s syndrome but doctors believe it is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.  A woman’s hormones may also play a role, but this theory is not confirmed.

The most common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome include:

• Fatigue
• Dry nose
• Digestive problems
• Skin and vaginal dryness
• Joint pain
• Dry, gritty, and/or burning sensation in the eyes
• Dry mouth
• Difficulty talking, swallowing, and/or chewing
• Sore and/or cracked tongue
• Dry and/or burning throat
• Dry and/or peeling lips
• Change in taste and/or smell
• Increased dental decay

Sjogren’s syndrome is classified as either a primary or a secondary disease.  Primary Sjogren’s syndrome can be traced by a doctor.  Symptoms of primary Sjogren’s syndrome include problems with the tear glands and the saliva glands.  Primary Sjogren’s is the result of people having certain antibodies called antinuclear antibodies (ANA) that work against the body.  Secondary Sjogren’s syndrome is caused when a person has an autoimmune disease like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.  These diseases make a person less likely to have the needed antibodies needed to prevent and fight off primary Sjogren’s syndrome.

The two most common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome are dry eyes and dry mouth.  A remedy for dry eyes depends on the cause and the severity of the dry eyes.  The first option for dry eyes is the use of artificial tears which are available over the counter.  Artificial tears can provide temporary relief from the pain, itchiness, and redness in the eyes.  When choosing to use eye drops such as artificial tears choose a brand without preservatives or one with non-irritating preservatives. There are also medical procedures available that help with dry eyes. A punctual occlusion is a simple procedure that helps to retain the tears within the eyes for a longer period of time.  This procedure has been known to improve the symptoms of dry eyes and increase comfort.  There are also inserts available that dissolve on the eye and continually lubricate and protect the eye throughout the day.  This insert has been known to reduce moderate to severe dry eye symptoms. Oral medications and vitamins such as Omega 3 are also available that improve dry eyes.

The second most common symptom of Sjogren’s syndrome is a dry mouth.  Some remedies for a dry mouth include brushing the oral cavity after every meal and flossing daily.  Dry mouth can also be alleviated by chewing sugarless gum and eating sugarless candy as this stimulates the secretion of saliva within the mouth and also decreases the risk of tooth decay.  Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and drink sugar less drinks.  It is also good to avoid consuming excessive amounts of sugary, salty, and spicy foods as this may make the dry mouth worse.  If all else fails, doctors can prescribe an oral medication that increases the secretion of saliva but this has been known to only work for a few hours.  A dry mouth also contributes to lung problems and pneumonia, which may require antibiotics.  If Sjogren’s syndrome is causing bronchitis, tracheobronchitis, or laryngotracheobronchitis a doctor may recommend the use a humidifier or the use of medications to open up the bronchial tubes and relieve the inflammation.

Sjogren’s syndrome also causes other problems throughout the body.  About half the people who suffer from Sjogren’s syndrome suffer from dry skin.  Dry skin can be abated by applying moisturizing creams and ointments three or four times a day to the skin.  This will trap the moisture within the skin.  Avoid long and hot showers as this dries out the skin and pat the skin dry with a towel to avoid removing to much moisture from the skin.  Soak in water for approximately ten to fifteen minutes.  This gives the skin the ability to absorb moisture.  Using a humidifier in the bedroom or other rooms within the house also helps to hydrate skin.

As many as four million Americans are suffering from Sjogren’s syndrome and ninety percent are women.  A common symptom that many women deal with is vaginal dryness.  There are vaginal moisturizers that are available that help to retain moisture in the vaginal area.  There are also vaginal lubricants that can be used which make intercourse more comfortable.

Some people with Sjogren’s syndrome also suffer from kidney problems.  Sjogren’s syndrome causes the kidneys to work inefficiently.  The most common problem is known as interstitial nephritis, or inflammation of the tissue around the kidney’s filters.  Another kidney problem is known as renal tubular acidosis which is the inability get rid of certain acids through urination.  Most doctors will not treat these problems unless kidney function is affected or it causes other health problems

Sjogren’s syndrome also causes nerve damage which can result in carpal tunnel, peripheral neuropathy, and cranial neuropathy.  These problems are typically treated with medications to control the pain and in some cases are treated with steroids which are used to control the inflammation.

Digestive problems are also associated with Sjogren’s syndrome.  Some of these digestive problems may include heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain and swelling, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and weight loss.  The treatments for these problems vary depending on the specific problem and its severity; however, pain medications, anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, and immunosuppressants may be prescribed.

Despite the fact that there is no cure for Sjogren’s syndrome there are some basic remedies that can be utilized to make the symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome a little more bearable.

Sjogren’s syndrome has many various symptoms.  The two most common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome are having a dry mouth and/or dry eyes.  Other symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome include:

• Dry skin
• Vaginal dryness
• Digestive problems
• Nerve damage
• Kidney problems
• Fatigue
• Skin rashes
• Increased dental decay
• Dry and/or burning throat
• Sore and/or cracked tongue
• Numbness and/or tingling in the extremities
• Joint and muscle pain
• Dry nose
• Thyroid problems

Dry mouth can be treated and alleviated by brushing the teeth after every meal, flossing daily.  Saliva production can be generated by chewing and eating sugarless gum and candy.  Chewing and eating sugarless gum and/or candy increases saliva production which generates additional moisture within the mouth.  Avoid consuming foods and drinks with excessive salt, sugar, and spices.  These ingredients have a tendency to dry out the mouth.  Drink plenty of water and keep the body hydrated in order to increase the production of saliva.  Treating dry mouth may also involve a doctor prescribing an oral medication to increase the production of saliva.

Dry mouth has also been known to contribute to lung problems such as: pneumonia, bronchitis, tracehobronchitis, and laryngotracheobronchitis.  A doctor may recommend a humidifier or the use of medications that open up the bronchial tubes and relieve the inflammation in order to treat bronchitis, tracheobronchitis, and laryngotracheobronchitis.  In more severe cases, pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics as prescribed by a doctor.

Treating dry eyes associated with Sjogren’s syndrome can be done with the use of artificial tears.  Artificial tears will provide temporary relief from the pain, itchiness, and redness associated with dry eyes.  A simple procedure performed by a doctor such as a punctual occlusion will help to retain moisture within the eyes for an extended period of time.  There are also inserts available that dissolve on the eye and continually lubricate the eye throughout the day.  Natural remedies for dry eyes include:

• Blinking frequently
• Avoid straining the eyes by taking short breaks from working on the computer and/or reading
• Avoid areas with excessive dust and smoke, low humidity, and drafts coming from air conditioners and fans

Dry skin associated with Sjogren’s syndrome can be alleviated with the use of a moisturizing creams and ointments. If these creams and ointments are applied three to four times a day this will trap the moisture within the skin and reduce the severity of the dry skin.  Long, hot showers also dry out the skin.  Instead try soaking in water for approximately ten to fifteen minutes and then pat the skin dry.  This allows the skin to absorb the moisture.  The use of humidifiers have also been proven effective at hydrating the skin.

Ninety percent of sufferers of Sjogren’s syndrome are women.  Most women with Sjogren’s syndrome suffer from vaginal dryness.  Vaginal dryness can be abated with the use of vaginal moisturizers and vaginal lubricants.

Nerve problems, digestive problems, and kidney problems associated with Sjogren’s syndrome are treated by a physician with the use of pain medications, anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, and immunosuppressants.

Even though Sjogren’s syndrome itself cannot be prevented, treatments for its symptoms are available.

• Fatigue
• Skin rashes
• Thyroid problems
• Joint and muscle pain
• Numbness and/or tingling in the extremities
• Dry nose
• Increased dental decay
• Dry and/or cracked lips
• Dry and/or burning throat
• Sore and/or cracked tongue

One of the most common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome is dry eyes.  A natural remedy for dry eyes includes blinking frequently.  Blinking frequently increases the moisture within the eyes.  Take short breaks from reading and/or working on a computer.  Activities such as reading and/or working on a computer strain the eyes and cause the eyes to dry out.  Dry eyes can also be abated by avoiding areas with low humidity and excessive drafts from air conditioners and fans.  Smoke and dust can also cause the symptoms of dry eyes to become worse, so avoiding these substances can lessen the symptoms.

The second most common symptom of Sjogren’s syndrome is dry mouth.  A natural remedy for dry mouth includes brushing the teeth after every meal and flossing daily.  Brushing and flossing encourages the production of saliva.  Another natural remedy for dry mouth includes chewing and eating sugarless gum and candy.  This action also promotes the production of saliva within the mouth.  Remedying dry mouth can also be done by limiting the intake of sugary drinks and foods, as well as salty and spicy foods.  Sugar, salt, and spices are substances that dry out the mouth.

Some people with Sjogren’s syndrome may also suffer from dry skin.  Remedying dry skin can be done by applying a moisturizing cream to the skin three to four times a day.  Applying a moisturizing cream traps the moisture within the skin and lessens the occurrences of dry skin.  The use of a humidifier can also hydrate the skin.  The occurrences of dry skin can also be lessened by avoiding long, hot showers.  Instead, soak in the water for approximately ten to fifteen minutes and when finished pat the skin dry.

Of all the symptoms associated with Sjogren’s syndrome the use of natural oils has been proven effective at minimizing some of the symptoms.  The oils of peppermint, spearmint, and almond work at fighting bacteria and infections, but do not dry out the mouth like traditional mouthwashes that contain alcohol.  When used regularly these natural oils are not washed out of the mouth, keeps the mouth moist, and continues to work at cleaning the teeth and gums. Furthermore, since these ingredients are natural ingredients they should not harm the body and contribute to the symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome.

Sjogren’s syndrome is the most prevalent autoimmune disorder.  There are currently four million Americans suffering from Sjogren’s syndrome.  The cause of Sjogren’s syndrome is unknown; however, researchers believe that it may be a combination of genetic and environmental factors, heredity, and hormonal changes.

Sjogren’s syndrome causes the body’s white blood cells to invade the glands within the body that produce moisture.  If Sjogren’s syndrome is not diagnosed properly and effectively, the white blood cells can completely destroy the moisture producing glands.

Sjogren’s syndrome also causes the following complications:

• Digestive problems
• Vaginal dryness
• Increased dental decay
• Dry and/or burning throat
• Sore and/or cracked tongue
• Joint and muscle pain
• Tingling and/or numbness of the extremities
• Dry nose
• Kidney problems
• Nerve problems
• Fatigue
• Skin rashes

The most common side effect of Sjogren’s syndrome is dry eyes.  When the eyes become dry they turn red, itch, and burn.  Sjogren’s syndrome may also affect ones vision causing everything to become blurry.  The eyes may also become sensitive to light.

Another side effect of Sjogren’s syndrome is a dry mouth.  A dry mouth may cause difficulty speaking, swallowing, and tasting.  A dry mouth may also feel as if there is cotton in the mouth, and the dry mouth may cause a dry cough. Another side effect of a dry mouth may be the result of lung problems and pneumonia.

About ninety percent of the people who suffer from Sjogren’s syndrome are women.  The most common complaint among women is that they suffer from vaginal dryness as a result of the Sjogren’s syndrome.

Digestive problems are another side effect of Sjogren’s syndrome.  Problems with the digestive system include issues with the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, and liver.  The symptoms of these health issues include painful and difficult swallowing, heartburn, abdominal pain and swelling, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and weight loss.  Sjogren’s syndrome has also been linked to cirrhosis of the liver.

Problems with the kidneys are another side effect of Sjogren’s syndrome.  The kidneys are affected when the tissue around the kidneys becomes inflamed and the kidneys are unable to rid the body of waste products through urination.  Another side effect is known as renal tubular acidosis.  When someone has this problem, he/she is unable to get rid of the acids that are within the body through urination.

Sjogren’s syndrome also affects the nerves.  Side effects of this complication may result in carpal tunnel, peripheral neuropathy, and cranial neuropathy.

Sjogren’s syndrome is a serious disease, but fortunately its symptoms can be treated.

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to turn against its own cells.  Sjogren’s syndrome affects the moisture producing glands which causes dry eyes and dry mouth.  Other glands including those glands in the stomach, pancreas, and intestines can also be affected.

The two most common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome are dry eyes and dry mouth.  Sjogren’s syndrome causes the eyes to turn red, itch, and burn.  It is also a possibility that ones vision may become blurry and the eyes may be sensitive to light.  When dry mouth occurs when associated with Sjogren’s syndrome, the patient may feel as if his/her mouth is full of cotton.  Sjogren’s syndrome causes difficulty in swallowing, speaking, and tasting.  The sense of smell can also be affected and a dry cough may develop.

Approximately half of the population with Sjogren’s syndrome suffers from dry skin.  The skin will usually itch; however, it is possible for the skin to crack, split, and become easily infected.

Women with Sjogren’s syndrome commonly suffer with vaginal dryness.  Vaginal dryness makes intercourse very painful which is the most common complaint.

Suffering from a dry mouth leads to lung problems and pneumonia.   A dry mouth prevents a person from swallowing food properly; therefore, the food is aspirated into the lungs and gets stuck in the lungs.  Pneumonia develops when the bacteria that are within the mouth travels to the lungs and causes infection and the person is unable to cough enough in order to expel the infection.

Kidney problems are also a common symptom of Sjogren’s syndrome.  The kidneys main job is to filter waste products from the blood and remove it from the body through urination.  When the tissue around the kidneys becomes inflamed, the kidneys are unable to rid the body of the waste products and urination is decreased.  Some people with Sjogren’s syndrome also suffer from a kidney problem called renal tubular acidosis.  This occurs when the body cannot get rid of the acids that are within the body through urination.  The result of this problem is that potassium levels drop which causes an imbalance of blood chemicals affecting the heart, muscles, and nerves.

Sjogren’s syndrome also affects the nerves.  The peripheral nervous system is affected which contains the nerves that control sensation and movement.  Complications result in carpal tunnel, peripheral neuropathy, and cranial neuropathy.

Digestive problems are also related to Sjogren’s syndrome.  Sjogren’s syndrome causes problems with the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, and liver resulting in painful and difficult swallowing, heartburn, abdominal pain and swelling, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and weight loss. Sjogren’s syndrome can also be related to hepatitis and cirrhosis.  Sjogren’s syndrome has also been linked to primary biliary cirrhosis which causes itching, fatigue, and eventually cirrhosis of the liver.

Other common symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome include:

• Fatigue
• Skin rashes
• Thyroid problems
• Joint and muscle pain
• Numbness and/or tingling in the extremities
• Dry nose
• Increased dental decay
• Dry and/or cracked lips
• Dry and/or burning throat
• Sore and/or cracked tongue

Thrush is most common in people who have weakened immune systems such as chemotherapy patients.  Chemotherapy often removes normal healthy cells from the body along with cancer causing ones.  Without the normal immune system to keep candida under control it is very easy for thrush to occur.  Thrush is also common in people who are using or have used antibiotics.  Antibiotics work in much the same way—removing good fighter bacteria from the body and allowing the candida yeast to take over. People with poorly controlled or undiagnosed diabetes will often suffer from thrush.  Candida thrives on sugar, so those with poorly controlled or undiagnosed diabetes will often suffer from thrush as well as yeast in other areas of the body. A compromised immune system also makes thrush a problem for those with HIV/AIDS infections as well.

If you have risk factors for thrush or are suffering from frequent recurring candida infections see your doctor to determine a cause and find treatment.  Thrush often responds well to anti fungal medications and you can expect to find relief anywhere from a few days to a week after beginning treatment.

Thrush can be identified by its painful, cottage cheese appearing white lesions that form on the inside of the cheeks and tongue.  These lesions may also bleed when scraped.  Oral thrush can spread to the roof of the mouth, the throat and tonsils if not treated properly.  Thrush may cause your mouth to feel like it has a thick coating inside it and you may lose your sense of taste temporarily.

Our bodies have effective defenses against invading organisms that should not be in our bodies.  However if our defenses are weakened by illness, medications or lifestyle factors these invading organisms may find an easy way in.  Taking antibiotics for long periods of time, using a steroid inhaler and smoking are just a few factors that may cause a candida outbreak.  Health conditions that weaken the immune system like HIV; diabetes and chemotherapy can also contribute.

Most cases of candida inside the mouth can be diagnosed simply by looking at the lesions. Your doctor may recommend increasing your intake of yogurt or taking acidophilus supplements to help your body build its own natural defenses and fight the candida.  In other cases you may need a prescription medication to cure the infection.  This can be a lozenge or a liquid that you swish around your mouth and swallow.

There are steps you can take to prevent a future candida infection.  If you use an inhaler make sure to rinse your mouth after use.  Continue to eat fresh culture yogurt daily and consider adding acidophilus supplements to your daily diet.  Watch what you eat—it is suspected that candida can grow more easily in people who consume larger amounts of sugar and yeast based foods.  Of course, see your dentist regularly for cleanings and check ups to find any signs of infection before they become a problem.

One common cause of thrush is due to the use of antibiotics.  Antibiotics kill bad bacteria while also killing our good ones.  When our good bacteria die there is no defense against candida and the white clumpy patches of thrush will form quickly. Because thrush is such a common condition, your dentist or doctor only needs to see the patches to identify thrush.

Thrush can be painful and your mouth and throat may feel raw and irritated.  Candida lesions can bleed when scraped and this makes eating and drinking very challenging.  Avoid spicy foods or other items that may irritate your mouth and throat until the infection is clear.

Candida will usually only clear with medication, so see your dentist or physician for the correct treatment for your case.  Eating more yogurt and taking probiotic supplements can also help reduce your chances of developing thrush in the future. Take special care if you are taking antibiotics and have had thrush in the past.  You may also consider changing your toothpaste and mouthwash to natural alternatives.  Natural toothpaste and mouthwash may be less likely to irritate an already tender mouth and throat and some ingredients are antibacterial and may help prevent a future outbreak of candida.