Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the moisture-producing glands in the body, leading to dryness in the eyes, mouth, and other areas. The condition can also affect other organs such as the kidneys, lungs, and nervous system.

The symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome can vary widely, but commonly include:

• Dryness in the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes
• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
• Fatigue and weakness
• Skin rashes or dryness
• Dry cough
• Vaginal dryness
• Enlarged salivary glands
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• Vision problems

Sjogren's syndrome is caused by the immune system attacking the moisture-producing glands in the body. There is no cure for the condition, but treatment can help to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment may include artificial tears or saliva, medications to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, and measures to prevent complications such as dental cavities or infections.

If you experience symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome, it is important to see a doctor who can perform a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment.

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder. Your immune system mistakenly attacks your body's own cells and tissues.

Scientists aren't certain why some people develop Sjogren's syndrome. Certain genes put people at higher risk of the disorder, but it appears that a triggering mechanism — such as infection with a particular virus or strain of bacteria — is also necessary.

In Sjogren's syndrome, your immune system first targets the glands that make tears and saliva. But it can also damage other parts of your body, such as:

• Joints
• Thyroid
• Kidneys
• Liver
• Lungs
• Skin
• Nerves

Treatment for Sjogren's syndrome depends on the parts of the body affected. Many people manage the dry eye and dry mouth of Sjogren's syndrome by using over-the-counter eyedrops and sipping water more frequently. But some people need prescription medications, or even surgical procedures.

Medications

Depending on your symptoms, your doctor might suggest medications that:

• Decrease eye inflammation. Prescription eyedrops such as cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra) may be recommended by your eye doctor if you have moderate to severe dry eyes.
• Increase production of saliva. Drugs such as pilocarpine (Salagen) and cevimeline (Evoxac) can increase the production of saliva, and sometimes tears. Side effects can include sweating, abdominal pain, flushing and increased urination.
• Address specific complications. If you develop arthritis symptoms, you might benefit from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other arthritis medications. Yeast infections in the mouth should be treated with antifungal medications.
• Treat systemwide symptoms. Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), a drug designed to treat malaria, is often helpful in treating Sjogren's syndrome. Drugs that suppress the immune system, such as methotrexate (Trexall), also might be prescribed.

Surgery

A minor procedure to seal the tear ducts that drain tears from your eyes (punctal occlusion) might help relieve your dry eyes. Collagen or silicone plugs are inserted into the ducts to help preserve your tears.