How do you pronounce Sjögren's?
[shō'grənz]
What is Sjögren's Syndrome?
Sjögren's Syndrome causes white blood cells to attack the moisture producing glands in the body. Most commonly affecting the eyes and mouth, causing extreme dryness. Sjögren's Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder.
How many people have Sjögren's Syndrome?
Over 4 million people in the U.S. currently suffer from Sjögren's Syndrome. Nine in every ten patients diagnosed with Sjögren's Syndrome are women.
Is Sjögren's Syndrome contagious?
No, however it can be hereditary.
Is Sjögren's Syndrome fatal?
This depends on the type of Sjögren's Syndrome (Primary or Secondary) and complications if any. For the most part, people with Syndrome don't die from it.
What kind of a doctor treats Sjögren's Syndrome?
Varying doctors treat varying symptoms and complications, people suffering from Sjögren's Syndrome should regularly see the following types of doctors:
- Rheumatologist - (Arthritis/Autoimmune Disease Doctors) - Treat and monitor Sjögren's Syndrome and treat joint pain stemming from the disease.
- Opthamologist - (Eye Doctor) - Treat and monitor eye dryness, blurred vision and the effects of Sjögren's Syndrome on the eyes.
- Dentist and Dental Surgeons - (Teeth Doctors) - Treat the affects of dry mouth on the teeth.
- Otorhinolaryngologist - (Ear Nose Throat Doctor) - Treat and monitor any affects of Sjögren's Syndrome in the mouth (not teeth), nose and throat.
- Dermatologist - (Skin Doctor) - Treat and monitor dryness of the skin which can be in the form of eczema, psoriasis or other dry skin symptoms.
- General Practitioner - (Primary Care Doctor/Family Medicine) - To oversee symptoms such as dehydration, complications from illnesses which can aggregative Sjögren's Syndrome and administer all other general health medications and preventions.
- Oncologist - (Cancer Doctor) - Primary Sjögren's Syndrome leads to a higher risk of lymphoma, which can be hard to detect. Being thoroughly checked from time to time can help save a life.
- Psychologist - (Mental Health Doctor) - To help those who suffer from Sjögren's Syndrome cope with the impact on their lives.
- Pharmacist - (Medication Specialist) - Sticking to one pharmacy where the pharmacist is familiar with your medical history and medication history is important, sometimes Sjögren's Syndrome can be treated with a variety of frequently changing medications and a good pharmacist will help avoid any dangerous complications that can happen with different medications prescribed by so many different doctors.
Blood tests, lip biopsies and eye Schirmer Test are all used to diagnose Sjögren's Syndrome. It takes on average seven years to receive a diagnosis for Sjögren's Syndrome because symptoms can mimic so many other illnesses.
Is there a cure for Sjögren's Syndrome?
There is no cure for Sjögren's Syndrome however the symptoms are treatable.
Sources:
Medicine Net
Sjögren's Syndrome Foundation
Mayo Clinic