Raising Awareness on World Sjogren’s Day: Understanding, Managing, and Supporting
- BY Alyssa Buchanan
- IN Zenni News
Every year on July 23rd, the global community comes together to observe World Sjogren’s Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about Sjogren’s syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. By understanding the symptoms, impacts, and management strategies of Sjogren’s syndrome, we can offer better support to those living with this condition. At Zenni, we are committed to promoting eye health and supporting individuals with Sjogren’s syndrome.
Photo by Oleh Horiun
Understanding Sjogren’s Syndrome
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own moisture-producing glands. This results in symptoms such as dry eyes, dry mouth, and other systemic issues. While anyone can develop Sjogren’s syndrome, it is more commonly diagnosed in women, particularly those over the age of 40.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The hallmark symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome are dryness-related issues, including:
- Dry Eyes: Persistent dryness, itching, burning sensation, and a feeling of grittiness in the eyes.
- Dry Mouth: Difficulty swallowing, speaking, and an increased risk of dental decay and oral infections.
- Fatigue and Joint Pain: Many individuals also experience chronic fatigue and joint pain, which can significantly impact their quality of life.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, blood tests to detect specific antibodies, and biopsies of the salivary glands.
Photo by Ksenia Chernaya
Managing Sjogren’s Syndrome
While there is no cure for Sjogren’s syndrome, various strategies can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected.
- Eye Care and Moisture: Dry eyes are a major concern for those with Sjogren’s syndrome. Regular use of artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can provide relief. Additionally, maintaining humidity in living spaces and wearing protective eyewear can help reduce dryness.
- Oral Health: For dry mouth, sipping water frequently, using sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine can help. Dental hygiene is crucial, and regular dental check-ups are recommended to prevent complications.
- Systemic Treatments: Medications that stimulate saliva and tear production, immunosuppressive drugs, and lifestyle modifications can all be part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Regular consultation with healthcare providers is essential to tailor the management plan to individual needs.
Supporting Those with Sjogren’s Syndrome
Support from family, friends, and the broader community is vital for those living with Sjogren’s syndrome. Here are a few ways to offer support:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding the challenges faced by individuals with Sjogren’s syndrome can foster empathy and better support. Share information about the condition within your network to raise awareness.
- Advocate for Research and Resources: Advocacy plays a crucial role in improving the lives of those with Sjogren’s syndrome. Supporting organizations dedicated to Sjogren’s research and resources can lead to advancements in treatment and care.
- Encourage Regular Eye Exams: Regular eye exams are essential for individuals with Sjogren’s syndrome to monitor their eye health and adjust treatments as needed. Zenni encourages scheduling annual eye exams to ensure optimal eye care and address any changes in vision promptly.
World Sjogren’s Day is a reminder of the ongoing need to raise awareness, support research, and provide care for those affected by Sjogren’s syndrome. At Zenni, we are committed to promoting eye health. By coming together as a community, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those living with this chronic condition. Together, we can support those with Sjogren’s syndrome and promote better eye health for all.
