Sjogren
syndrome is a rheumatic disorder characterized by
dryness of the eyes, mouth, respiratory tract, rectum, and vagina. It is an autoimmune disease, in which the immune system, for
unknown reasons, forms
antibodies that
attack the body's own tissues. In Sjogren syndrome, antibodies attack and damage lubricating
glands such as the lachrymal (tear-producing) and salivary glands. As a result, the person experiences such symptoms as redness of the eyes, difficulty in swallowing, chronic coughing, and generalized itchiness.
The cause of Sjogren syndrome is unknown, although genetic
factors are believed to play a role and environmental factors, such as a bacterial or viral infection, may trigger its development. About 90 percent of its victims are women, and the disorder often is associated with connective-tissue disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, polymyositis, and scleroderma. Treatment consists of relieving dryness by use of artificial tears, home humidifiers, aerosol sprays, vaginal lubricants, and so on. Patients are advised to avoid medications that decrease saliva production, as well as prolonged hot baths and showers, which promote dryness.
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