Sjogren's Syndrome:

What it is - What causes it - What to do about it

What is Sjogren's Syndrome?

Named after Henrik Sjogren, the Swedish ophthalmologist who described it, Sjogren 's Syndrome (pronounced SHOW-gren's) is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks healthy cells of the body. White blood cells mistakenly attack the moisture secreting glands in the eyes and mouth, therefore causing dry eyes and dry mouth.

It is estimated that 1 to 4 million Americans are affected by Sjogren's Syndrome, and additionally suffer from discomfort, pain, and increased infections. Nearly 9 out of 10 people diagnosed with Sjogren's Syndrome are women, and although it can occur in men and women of any age group, the average onset is in the mid to late 40s. It can occur as a disorder on its own, or it may also be a delayed effect from other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, or cirrhosis.
                                                                 
The cause of Sjogren's Syndrome is still unclear, though some studies believe it to be hereditary. Currently there is no cure, so treatment typically focuses on relieving the symptoms. For dry mouth, maintaining good oral hygiene is of great importance. Aside from prescribed medications to increase the flow of saliva, there are saliva substitutes on the market that can imitate saliva by replicating the wet feeling in the mouth. While this may give relief from the dry feeling, artificial saliva doesn't perform the same in regard to bacteria as the real thing.

Signs of Sjogren's Syndrome

Symptoms of Sjogren's Syndrome often overlap those of other diseases, making it harder to diagnose. Dryness can also occur as a side effect of medications for things such as high blood pressure and anti-depressants. The hallmarks of Sjogren's Syndrome are dry mouth and dry eyes, though some people may additionally experience the following:

Progression of Sjogren's Syndrome

Dangers of Sjogren's Syndrome

Sjogren's Syndrome may cause dysfunction of other organs such as the kidneys, gastrointestinal system, blood vessels, lungs, liver, pancreas, and central nervous system. Patients may also experience extreme fatigue and have a higher risk of developing cancer in the lymph nodes.

As if the symptoms of this condition weren't bad enough, the risk for other disease is greatly exaggerated by the lack of saliva in the mouth. Saliva plays a major role in keeping the balance of bacteria in the mouth. Saliva, being highly concentrated in oxygen, generally helps to kill harmful bacteria and wash them away. Without this natural bacteria inhibitor present, bacteria can quickly grow out of control and wreak havoc on your oral health.

Having a dry mouth is just the beginning. When the mouth is persistently dry, it can lead to gum infections and more serious conditions like gingivitis and periodontal disease- which has now been linked to other health conditions such as:

What causes Sjogren's Syndrome?

The exact cause of Sjogren's Syndrome is still unknown. More recent research seems to be pointing towards genetic, or hereditary causes. Scientists believe that there may also be a link between contact with certain viruses that can increase risk of developing it. In some cases, Sjogren's Syndrome can be a delayed effect of other inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

How to prevent Sjogren's Syndrome

Because of the unclear causes, preventing Sjogren's Syndrome can be particularly difficult. Treatment typically focuses on relieving the symptoms themselves.  The best thing you can do to empower your mouth to defend against harmful bacteria is to practice good oral hygiene, and use a 100% pure oral care product instead of harmful, chemical-laden toothpastes and mouthwash.  Follow these steps below to promote superior oral health and hygiene.

Treatment of Sjogren's Syndrome

As there is currently no cure for Sjogren's Syndrome, some treatments can help ease the symptoms associated with it. When dealing with dry mouth, there are some definite "do's and don'ts" to abide by.

Cost of Sjogren's Syndrome

There are a number of blood tests your physician may perform just to diagnose Sjogren's Syndrome. They include:

What to do about it

As we've discussed, one of the most important things to monitor if you suffer from Sjogren's Syndrome is your oral health. Because excessive dryness can lead to bacterial overgrowth, it's of the utmost importance that you maintain good oral hygiene. If you're already doing that, but still suffering, then you should look at the products that you are using. As we mentioned, there are many ingredients in common oral care products that can dry the mouth out even more, so be sure to avoid their use and look for a natural alternative oral care product that won't cause further distress.

Did it ever occur to you that the least expensive and painful option might be found in nature?

Gum Disease  | Site Map  | Blog  | Privacy  | Wholesale and Drop Shipping
© Copyright Trusted Health Products Inc. 2001 - 2011 All Rights Reserved
FDA disclaimer: "These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Adminsitration
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease."