We have anecdotal evidence that this disease is common in those of us withfibromyalgiaandchronic fatigue syndrome.
By itself, Sjogrens is enough to derail even an otherwise healthy competitive athlete.
Williams had to withdraw from a recent tournament because she was too fatigued to lift her arm.
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Thats something I know most of us can relate to.
This can be hard since we can have a host of similar illnesses that are all hard to diagnose.
The key is to pay close attention to your symptoms and talk to your healthcare provider about anything new.
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What Is Sjogrens Disease?
Sjogrens disease (previously called Sjogrens syndrome) is an autoimmune disease.
That means your immune system is incorrectly identifying your own tissues as dangerous and setting out to destroy them.
In the case of Sjogrens, the tissues under attack are glands that produce moisture.
The primary symptoms are dry eyes and mouth.
In addition, other areas, such as the vagina and the skin, can be abnormally dry.
This dryness isn’t just uncomfortable; it can be a real health hazard.
A chronically dry mouth can lead to oral infections, tooth decay, mouth pain, and difficulty swallowing.
Chronically dry eyes can develop ulcers.
The inflammation can be quite painful.
Dry mouth:Avoiding common toothpaste brands that have chemicals can be helpful.
Toms childrens toothpaste with fluoride or Biotene brand products may be better.
Chewing on gum or sucking on candy with xylitol as a sweetener can be helpful.
Prescription medications that stimulate saliva production include Salagen or Evoxac.
Naltrexone is an FDA-approved drug to treat patients who take too much pain medication.
Your healthcare provider may also prescribe drugs that suppress or alter the function of your immune system.
Its possible that they have some of the same underlying mechanisms.
Sjogrens is autoimmune, and some research suggests thatchronic fatigue syndrome may be autoimmuneas well.
