Dry Eyes, Mouth and Skin
You’ve known for a while that something isn't right
Your mouth, eyes and skin have been extremely dry. Chewing and swallowing food have been difficult. It’s been hard to speak without needing to sip water constantly. Maybe your eyes have felt “glued shut” or “gritty,” or perhaps you’ve been very tired. You may also be coughing a lot and no matter how often you brush your teeth, you may still get cavities.
Finally, your healthcare provider has given you a name for these symptoms. He or she has told you that you have Sjögren's (SHOW-grins) Syndrome. Now that you have been diagnosed, your healthcare provider can help you better cope with this condition.
While there is no cure for Sjögren's Syndrome, there are things you can do to help relieve the symptoms that are part of this disease.
What is Sjögren’s Syndrome?
Sjögren’s Syndrome is a chronic, or lifelong, autoimmune disease. Normally, the immune system acts to protect the body from external threats like germs, but when a person has an autoimmune disease the immune system attacks the body instead of the germs.
If you have Sjögren’s Syndrome, this attack typically starts with your moisture-producing glands, which are called the exocrine glands. You need healthy exocrine glands to produce saliva and tears. These glands also produce moisture needed in the vaginal area, and in the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. If your exocrine glands fail to create enough moisture, you may experience a number of uncomfortable symptoms.
What are the signs and symptoms of Sjögren’s Syndrome?
You may have some or all of the following symptoms of Sjögren's Syndrome:
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These symptoms sometimes lead to further damage. For example, saliva is necessary to cleanse your mouth. Without enough saliva, unwanted bacteria may build up in your mouth. This can cause infections, dental decay and mouth sores. Fortunately there is treatment available from your healthcare provider that can help you maintain the flow of saliva in your mouth: EVOXAC (cevimeline HCI).
EVOXAC is only indicated for the treatment of symptoms of dry mouth in patients with
Sjögren’s Syndrome.
EVOXAC is not indicated for the treatment of dry eyes or other dryness associated with Sjögren’s Syndrome.
Additional Resources for Sjögren's Syndrome patients: |
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Sjögren's Syndrome Foundation |
Arthritis Foundation |
