Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the glands that make saliva (salivary glands) and glands that make tears (lachrymal glands). When the salivary and lachrymal glands get destroyed, it leads to a dry mouth (xerostomia) and dry eyes (xerophthalmia). Apart from these glands, Sjogren’s syndrome may also damage other parts including joints, lungs, thyroid gland, kidneys, skin, and liver.

SYMPTOMS OF SJOGREN'S SYNDROME

The two main symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome are:

• Dry eyes-Eyes might burn, itch or feel gritty as if there is sand in them.
• Dry mouth-Mouth might feel like it is full of cotton, making it difficult to swallow or speak.

Some people with Sjogren's syndrome also have one or more of the following:

• Joint pain, swelling and stiffness
• Swollen salivary glands particularly the set located behind jaw and in front of our ears
• Skin rashes or dry skin
• Vaginal dryness
• Persistent dry cough
• Prolonged fatigue

CAUSES OF SJOGREN'S SYNDROME

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder.Our immune system mistakenly attacks our bodies own cells and tissues.

Scientists are not certain why some people develop Sjogren's syndrome. Certain genes put people at higher risk of the disorder, but it appears that a triggering mechanism such as infection with a particular virus or strain of bacteria is also necessary.

In Sjogren's syndrome,our immune system first targets the glands that make tears and saliva. But it can also damage other parts of our body, such as:

• Joints
• Thyroid
• Kidneys
• Liver
• Lungs
• Skin
• Nerves

RISK FACTOR OF SJOGREN'S SYNDROME

Sjogren's syndrome typically occurs in people with one or more known risk factors, including:

• Age-Sjogren's syndrome is usually diagnosed in people older than 40.
• Sex- Women are much more likely to have Sjogren's syndrome.
• Rheumatic disease- It is common for people who have Sjogren's syndrome to also have a rheumatic disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

COMPLICATION OF SJOGREN'S SYNDROME

The most common complications of Sjogren's syndrome involve our eyes and mouth.

• Dental cavities- Because saliva helps protect the teeth from the bacteria that cause cavities, one is more prone to developing cavities if our mouth is dry.
• Yeast infections- People with Sjogren's syndrome are much more likely to develop oral thrush, a yeast infection in the mouth.
• Vision problems-Dry eyes can lead to light sensitivity, blurred vision and corneal damage.

Less common complications might affect:

• Lungs, kidneys or liver-Inflammation can cause pneumonia, bronchitis or other problems in your lungs; lead to problems with kidney function; and cause hepatitis or cirrhosis in your liver.
• Lymph nodes- A small percentage of people with Sjogren's syndrome develop cancer of the lymph nodes (lymphoma).
• Nerves-One might develop numbness, tingling and burning in our hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy).

HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINE FOR SJOGREN'S SYNDROME

Sjogren’s syndrome can be treated safely and effectively with the use of homeopathic medicines. Homeopathic medicines treat Sjogren’s syndrome by moderating the overactive immune system. The homeopathic medicines for Sjogren’s syndrome are selected by taking into consideration the part affected and the characteristic symptoms in every individual case. The primary symptoms present in most cases of Sjogren’s syndrome including dry eyes and dry mouth can be well-managed with homeopathic remedies. Apart from these, the symptoms present in some cases including joint pains, fatigue, dry, itchy skin, dry cough and dryness of the vagina are also managed equally well.Homeopathic prescription needs a complete evaluation of the case,so these medicines should be used under the supervision of a homoeopathic physician.

Belladonna : Usefull for managing dry eyes in Sjogren’s syndrome. Along with dryness, there redness of eye with itching.There is burning, smarting and stinging sensation in eyes.Gven when there is Sand-like gritty sensation in the eyes

RhusTox : Useful for joint pains in cases of Sjogren’s syndrome.There is pain, swelling, redness, heat in joints with marked stiffness.Useful for cracking on stretching the joints which may feel better by warm application.Recommended when joint pain gets worse during rest and better by motion.

ARSENIC ALBUM : Usefull for Sjogren’s Syndrome where the person experiences extreme fatigue. There is weariness and weakness prevail all the time and there is intense fatigue which makes a person want to lie down constantly. Given when slightest exertion can cause fatigue and there may be anxiety or restlessness.

BRYONIA : Usefull for cough in cases of Sjogren’s syndrome. There is dry, spasmodic cough. Also there is tickling sensation in the throat which may be present along with a cough which may worsen after eating or drinking. Also vomiting may occur along with cough.There is pain in head and chest appear with a cough.There is dryness of the mouth and cracking of the lips may be present.Also useful for joint pains that are worse from motion and better by rest.

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