Dry Eyes, Dry Mouth and Sjogren’s Syndrome
Did you know that your dry eyes might actually be part of a larger autoimmune condition? What if your morning dry mouth isn’t just a temporary issue, but a symptom of what is known as Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Many assume Sjogren’s is rare, but it’s one of the most common autoimmune diseases and affects millions of people.
I’m Martin Robinson, the owner and principal optometrist at Martin’s Eyecare in Glenorchy. I understand how frustrating it can be to struggle with dry eyes and mouth symptoms, as many of my patients experience these issues. At our practice, we use advanced technology like the OCULUS Keratograph® 5M to provide a precise diagnosis of eye health and offer tailored treatments.
Take control of your health today; a consultation could be the key to lasting relief.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Sjogren’s syndrome is a common autoimmune condition that often causes chronic dry eyes, a dry mouth, and fatigue, impacting daily life and overall well-being.
- Early diagnosis using tests like Schirmer’s or advanced imaging tools, such as the OCULUS Keratograph® 5M, is essential for understanding and managing symptoms effectively.
- Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms with options like artificial tears, saliva substitutes, and tailored care plans to prevent complications and improve comfort.
Sjogren’s Syndrome and Its Overall Health Impact
There are two distinct types of Sjogren’s syndrome.
Primary Sjogren’s syndrome occurs independently, with no connection to other illnesses, and often begins subtly with symptoms like dry eyes and a persistently dry mouth.
In contrast, secondary Sjogren’s syndrome develops alongside other autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, which can complicate its diagnosis and management. While the condition predominantly affects women, particularly those over the age of 40, it is not exclusive to this demographic and can present in men and in younger individuals as well.
Those who suffer from Sjogren’s syndrome often feel isolated, as its symptoms are invisible to others but deeply disruptive to daily life. The chronic dryness and fatigue that define this condition can impact work, relationships, and overall well-being. Joint pain and glandular swelling are also common, adding another layer of physical challenges. And for many, the fatigue associated with Sjogren’s syndrome is one of the most debilitating symptoms of all.
For residents in Tasmania who suspect they may have Sjogren’s syndrome, it’s important to seek appropriate treatment. At Martin’s Eyecare, we focus on providing personalised support to help individuals regain control and comfort. Eye relief is possible with the right approach and a commitment to care.
Diagnosing Sjogren’s Syndrome
To diagnose Sjogren’s syndrome effectively, it is important to combine a thorough evaluation of symptoms with targeted diagnostic tests. To understand the condition fully, a detailed medical history must be collected. Questions focus on the frequency and severity of issues such as dry eyes, dry mouth, fatigue, and joint pain. These insights allow us to determine how the symptoms are affecting the patient’s daily life and identify patterns that point toward Sjogren’s syndrome.
Initially we may use a Schirmer’s test is used to measure tear production, providing insight into the extent of eye dryness. We also have the ability to utilize advanced diagnostic tools in order to gain more detailed insights. At Martin’s Eyecare, our OCULUS Keratograph® 5M allows us to create detailed images of the tear film and evaluate its stability. If we suspect Sjögren’s syndrome, we can refer you to a rheumatologist for a definitive diagnosis.
Your rheumatologist may perform blood tests to detect antibodies like anti-Ro and anti-La, which are strongly associated with this autoimmune condition. In some cases, they may also conduct a lip biopsy to examine salivary glands for inflammation and reduced function.
To learn more about the diagnosis of Sjogren’s Syndrome, watch the following video from the Johns Hopkins Institute.
Management and Treatment Options for Sjogren’s Syndrome
Complications of untreated Sjogren’s syndrome can extend beyond discomfort, significantly impacting oral health, eye health, and overall systemic well-being. It’s important to address the condition early in order to prevent long-term damage and maintain quality of life.
Eye Health Risks
Chronic dryness in the eyes can lead to complications if left unmanaged. The risk of corneal damage increases over time, potentially resulting in scarring or vision impairment. For individuals already dealing with light sensitivity or discomfort, this adds another layer of challenges.
Regular eye exams play a pivotal role in reducing these risks. Eye professionals can monitor your condition and recommend treatment for emerging problems before they escalate.
To relieve dry eye symptoms, focus on replenishing and retaining moisture. Our recommendations include:
-
Using artificial tears and lubricating eye drops to keep the eyes hydrated throughout the day.
-
Considering prescription treatments or punctal plugs, which help retain natural moisture by partially blocking tear drainage.
-
Avoiding environmental irritants, such as dry air, wind, and direct exposure to heating or air conditioning, to minimise symptoms.
Oral Health Complications
The lack of saliva caused by Sjogren’s syndrome creates an ideal environment for oral health issues. Without the natural cleansing and protective effects of saliva, the risk of cavities, gingivitis, and oral infections increases dramatically. Even routine eating and speaking can become uncomfortable due to dryness or the development of sores in the mouth.
To mitigate these risks, regular dental check-ups are critical. Dentists can monitor oral health, recommend fluoride treatments, and provide guidance on maintaining hygiene despite reduced saliva production.
For those struggling with dry mouth, improve saliva flow and maintain oral health:
-
Using saliva substitutes or taking medications to stimulate saliva production can help restore moisture.
-
Staying hydrated, sucking on sugar-free lozenges, and chewing gum can support natural saliva production.
-
Scheduling regular dental visits can monitor oral health and prevent issues like decay or infections, which are more common due to reduced saliva.
Systemic Complications
Sjogren’s syndrome is not limited to dryness; it can lead to serious systemic complications. In some cases, patients may develop lymphoma or experience inflammation in major organs such as the liver, kidneys, or lungs.
To address systemic symptoms and additional complications, a holistic approach is often necessary:
-
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage joint pain and inflammation.
-
For severe cases, immunosuppressant medications may be prescribed by your doctor to control the immune system’s activity.
-
Hormone therapy might also be recommended by your doctor.
CONCLUSION
Living with dry eyes and a dry mouth can feel overwhelming, especially when these symptoms start to affect your daily life. What many people don’t realize is that these issues might be signs of Sjogren’s syndrome, a common autoimmune condition that’s more widespread than you might think.
It’s important to take these symptoms seriously because early diagnosis and treatment can make a huge difference in managing your comfort and preventing long-term complications.
At Martin’s Eyecare, we’re here to help you get to the root of the problem. Using tools like the OCULUS Keratograph® 5M, we can assess your tear film in detail and guide you toward the right treatment. Whether it’s artificial tears, lifestyle changes, or a referral to a specialist for further testing, we’ll work with you to create a plan that fits your needs.
You don’t have to face Sjogren’s syndrome or its symptoms alone. Relief is within reach, and our team is ready to help you take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable eyes.