What is Sjogren Syndrome?

Condition analysis:
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease; that is, a disease in which the immune system turns against the body’s own cells. Normally, the immune system works to protect us from disease by destroying harmful invading organisms like viruses and bacteria. In the case of Sjogren’s syndrome, disease-fighting cells attack various organs, most notably the glands that produce tears and saliva. Damage to these glands causes a reduction in both the quantity and quality of their secretions. This results in symptoms that include dry eyes and dry mouth.

Sjogren’s syndrome is also a rheumatic disease. These are diseases characterized by inflammation (signs include redness or heat, swelling, and symptoms such as pain) and loss of function of one or more connecting or supporting structures of the body. They especially affect joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, and muscles.

Primary Versus Secondary Sjogren’s Syndrome
Sjogren’s syndrome is classified as either primary or secondary. The primary form occurs in people who do not have other rheumatic disesaes. The secondary form occurs in people who already have another rheumatic disease, most commonly rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). These people then develop dry eyes or dry mouth.

Instructions:
Sjogren’s Syndrome Sun Survival Tips
Exposure to bright sun light or UV light can elicit skin reactions for people with Sjogren’s syndrome.

For people with Sjogren’s syndrome, exposure to sun light or UV light can lead to skin rashes, disease flares, eye sensitivity and pain.

Wear good UV-protective wraparound sunglasses, and stay out of the sun whenever possible.

Wear UV-protective clothing and hats to reduce skin reactions.

Use semi-transparent UV-protective films on your house windows and car windows to protect you from UV radiation.

Look for the words "broad spectrum" on sunscreen protection for protections from both UVA and UVB radiation.

Reapply your sunscreen often because sweat and moisture can decrease the effectiveness of sunscreen lotions.