Treating Sjogren’s syndrome revolves around treating the symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome as there is no effective cure for Sjogren’s syndrome.

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.