Is there any cure or treatment for Srojens syndrome?
Sjogren's syndrome is a disorder of the immune system often
defined by its two most common and first symtoms-dry eyes and a dry
mouth. In Sjogren's syndrome, the immune system attacks healthy
tissue. Any age can develop this syndrome yet most people are older
than 40 when diagnosed. There is no cure but treatment can relieve
symptoms. Most need to be on nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs). This group of medications help to relieve both pain and
inflammation. Your opthamologist may recommend topical nonsteroidal
eyedrops, used with caution, so not to injure your cornea. Some
doctors prescribe Hydrochloroquine (Plaquenil), are useful if you
have inflamed joints. Pilocarpine (Salagen) can be prescribed for
dry mouth symptoms, but is not an option if you have poorly
controlled asthma, cardiovascular disease or pregnant. Cevimeline
(Evoxac) is also for dry mouths, it works by causing mouth to
produce more saliva. Immunosuppressants are some meds that doctors
may prescribe if problems arise. These medicines are
cyclophosphamide (Cytooxan), methotrexate (Rheumatrex),
mycophenolate (CellCept) and azathioprine IImuran). So, if there is
a particular problem of the immune system, the doctor can pinpoint
the particular problem with one of these last medications I listed.
There is a minor surgery available to relieve dry eyes. There is
also a new technique that drops are made from a persons own
serum/the reports have been that the drops are beneficial in
patients with dry eyes.