Self Help

You have been diagnosed, so what can you do about it?

There is at the moment no known cure for Sjogren's Syndrome. Moisture replacement therapies, including chewing gum can help the symptoms of dryness. Be aware that sugar free gum that contains Aspartame or Nutrasweet (E951), may cause problems. (See these links and decide yourself, 1, 2, 3). Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used as pain killers. For individuals with severe complications, more aggressive treatment may be necessary. Presently, no single gene, micro-organism or hormone is known to cause Sjogren's Syndrome. I have found that success at self help can be monitored by an increase in the senses of taste and smell.

Get actively involved

While diet and a healthy lifestyle may help manage your symptoms, Sjogren's Syndrome cannot be prevented. Smoking, poor diet, and use of certain drugs may worsen your symptoms. It is important to be actively involved in your own care to find the best ways to relieve your symptoms. Visit the SJS World Forum and talk to friendly and helpful people worldwide. (See link on the left hand menu.) The following treatments for each body area affected by Sjogren's Syndrome may be helpful.

Eyes:
Use artificial tear drops throughout the day. Try to use preservative-free drops, which are less irritating to the eyes.Use lubricating ointments at night. Lubricants are thicker and last longer, so there is less burning, dryness, and itching when you wake up in the morning. Wash your eyes with salted water.

Mouth:
Artificial saliva substitutes,coat the mouth (mouthwash or spray) should be tried. Make more frequent visits to the dentist to prevent and treat tooth decay.Try drinking more fluids throughout the day to keep your mouth moist. Numerous sips is a better approach than a large drink. Keep water by your bedside at night.Use anti yeast medications to treat a yeast infection (candidiasis) that forms in the mouth. Place in your mouth sugar-free candies or gum that naturally stimulate saliva production, such as lemon drops or cherry pits. (Sugar can increase your risk for cavities and yeast infections, some people talk higher of Splenda.) Some people talk highly of Biotene Dry Mouth Gum, Sugar Free Mint. Click here to find out more.

Respiratory tract and skin:
Place a humidifier (and an air purifier, if you feel it helps) in your home and at work to increase your comfort.Use nasal spray made up of water and salt to alleviate a dry nose and nasal congestion. Use moisturizing skin lotions throughout the day. Use vaginal lubricants when needed .Painful saliva glands and inflamed joints and muscles.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as aspirin or ibuprofen) can help reduce mild swelling and pain. See a doctor for severe swelling and pain in the glands, joints, and muscles, which may require a stronger prescription medication.

Stomach:
Take a nonprescription antacid or acid reducer (such as Pepcid AC or Zantac 75) when needed to reduce heartburn .Raise the head of your bed to reduce the back flow (reflux) of stomach acid into your esophagus when you sleep.See your doctor for serious reflux problems.

Whole-body (systemic) symptoms:
Try a daily amount of gentle exercise (swimming in a warm pool may be good if your joints ache) to relieve aches and fatigue. Get plenty of rest every night to help reduce fatigue and improve cognitive ability.If you have Sjogren's Syndrome, it is possible you may be at greater risk for developing other health problems related to thyroid function (hypothyroidism) and mental health (depression). There are effective treatments available for both of these areas of your health. You need to seek treatment from your doctor if you feel constant and overwhelming fatigue or depression.

Follow these steps to help treat your symptoms and improve the quality of your life. Getting plenty of rest, eating well, and doing mild exercise daily can help you feel better. I have found that success at self help can be monitored by an increase in the senses of taste and smell.

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