An autoimmune condition that mainly causes dryness of the eyes and mouth, and can also affect the joints and other parts of the body
Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system affects the glands that produce moisture, leading mainly to dryness of the eyes and mouth. It can occur on its own or alongside other autoimmune conditions, and it can also affect the joints, energy levels and, less commonly, other organs.
Written for patients and reviewed by Dr Liubov Borukhson, Consultant Rheumatologist (GMC 7021928).
The hallmark of Sjogren's is dryness, but it can affect more than the glands. Features may include:
Diagnosis brings together your symptoms, an examination, blood tests for particular antibodies and markers of inflammation, and tests of eye and gland function. Because dryness has many causes, assessment helps confirm whether Sjogren's is responsible and whether it is occurring alongside another condition.
Where the joints are involved, ultrasound can help assess inflammation. Dr Borukhson uses point-of-care ultrasound during the consultation, so this can often be done in the same visit. You can read more on the ultrasound clinic page.
Treatment focuses on relieving dryness, protecting the eyes and teeth, managing joint symptoms and fatigue, and monitoring for any wider involvement. The approach is individual and is discussed with you, and because Sjogren's is long-term, regular review is helpful.
Sjogren's syndrome can affect the eyes, mouth, joints and, less commonly, other organs, so care sometimes draws on more than one specialty. Dr Borukhson practises within a world-renowned tertiary centre, with ready access to consultant colleagues across the other specialties that may be involved in caring for this condition. Where appropriate, she can involve those specialists directly, and bring particularly complex cases to a multidisciplinary team meeting (MDT) with minimal delay. This means that, when more than one area of expertise is needed, your care can be joined up and decisions reached promptly.
Persistent dryness combined with joint pain and fatigue is worth assessing properly, both to confirm the diagnosis and to check whether any other autoimmune condition is present. A specialist review can bring clarity and a clear plan.
A specialist assessment can confirm whether Sjogren's syndrome is involved and agree a plan to manage symptoms and protect your health
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