Medical illustration of Sjögren's disease and commonly affected tear and salivary glands.

Sjögren's disease (often called Sjögren's syndrome) is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly targets moisture-producing glands, especially the tear glands and salivary glands. This can cause persistent dry eyes and dry mouth. It may also affect other parts of the body, including the joints, skin, lungs, kidneys, nerves and blood vessels.

Sjögren's can range from mild dryness to more complex systemic disease. Symptoms overlap with many other conditions and some medicines can also cause dryness, so diagnosis requires a careful assessment rather than relying on one symptom or one blood test. Treatment focuses on relieving dryness, protecting the eyes and teeth, and managing inflammation or organ involvement when present.

Sjögren's Syndrome: Quick Overview

What Is Sjögren's Disease?

Sjögren's disease is an autoimmune condition. Normally, the immune system helps defend the body against infections. In Sjögren's, immune activity mistakenly targets tissues associated with moisture production, particularly the lacrimal glands (which make tears) and salivary glands (which make saliva).

Reduced tears can irritate and damage the surface of the eyes. Reduced saliva can make the mouth feel sticky or dry, affect taste and swallowing, and increase the risk of tooth decay, gum problems and oral infections. The disease can also involve tissues beyond these glands, which is why it is described as a systemic condition.

You may see both names used: Sjögren's syndrome is the familiar historical term, while many medical organisations now use Sjögren's disease. Both refer to the same condition.

Primary and Associated Sjögren's Disease

The terms “primary” and “associated” describe the clinical context; they do not by themselves indicate how severe an individual's symptoms will be.

Common Symptoms of Sjögren's Syndrome

1. Dry Eyes

Eyes may feel gritty, sandy, burning, itchy or unusually tired. Some people experience redness, sensitivity to light, blurred vision that comes and goes, or a feeling that something is stuck in the eye. Wind, air-conditioning, smoke and prolonged screen use can make discomfort more noticeable.

2. Dry Mouth

A dry or sticky mouth can make it difficult to chew dry foods, swallow crackers or bread, speak for long periods, or wake up comfortably at night. Some people need frequent sips of water to help swallow food. Taste may change and the tongue or lips may feel dry or sore.

3. Dental and Oral Problems

Saliva protects teeth and helps control oral bacteria. When saliva is reduced, the risk of cavities, gum inflammation, oral thrush, mouth soreness and difficulty wearing dentures can increase. Regular dental care is therefore an important part of Sjögren's management.

4. Fatigue

Persistent tiredness is common and may not improve fully after sleep. Fatigue can be influenced by inflammation, pain, sleep disturbance, mood, anaemia, thyroid problems or other coexisting conditions. It should not automatically be attributed to Sjögren's without considering other causes.

5. Joint and Muscle Pain

Some people experience aching joints, stiffness or muscle discomfort. Swelling or prolonged morning stiffness may suggest inflammatory arthritis or another associated condition and should be discussed with a clinician.

6. Dry Skin and Other Mucosal Dryness

Skin may become dry or itchy. Dryness can also affect the nose, throat and vagina. Vaginal dryness may cause discomfort during sexual activity; a clinician can discuss suitable moisturising or prescription options.

7. Swollen Salivary Glands

The glands near the cheeks or jaw may become swollen or tender. Recurrent or persistent swelling needs assessment, especially if it is one-sided, firm or accompanied by other unexplained symptoms.

8. Cough, Numbness or Tingling

A persistent dry cough may occur. Some people develop nerve-related symptoms such as burning, numbness, tingling or altered sensation in the hands or feet. These symptoms have several possible causes and may need neurological assessment.

What Causes Sjögren's Syndrome?

The exact cause is not fully understood. Current evidence suggests that genetic susceptibility and environmental factors may interact and contribute to an abnormal immune response. Researchers have studied infections and other immune triggers, but no single virus, food or lifestyle habit has been established as the cause.

Sjögren's is not contagious. It is not caused by poor hygiene, and it is not a condition that can be diagnosed from dryness alone.

Risk Factors and Conditions Associated With Sjögren's

• Sex and age: Sjögren's is diagnosed more often in women and is commonly recognised in middle adulthood, although it can occur in men and at any age.
• Family and genetic factors: Having a family history of autoimmune disease may be relevant, but it does not mean a person will develop Sjögren's.
• Other autoimmune diseases: It may occur alongside rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune conditions.
• Medication-related dryness: Antihistamines, some antidepressants, decongestants, diuretics and other medicines can cause dry eyes or mouth. This does not prove Sjögren's.

How Is Sjögren's Syndrome Diagnosed?

There is no single test that confirms every case. Diagnosis combines the symptom history, physical examination and objective tests of tear and saliva production, along with blood tests and sometimes a minor salivary gland biopsy. A rheumatologist often coordinates the assessment, with help from an eye specialist and dentist.

1. Medical History and Examination

The clinician may ask how long dryness has been present, whether it occurs daily, whether you need artificial tears frequently, whether you wake to drink water, and whether you have joint pain, fatigue, gland swelling, rashes or neurological symptoms. They will also review medicines that can cause dryness.

2. Blood Tests for Autoantibodies

Blood tests may include anti-SSA/Ro antibodies, sometimes anti-SSB/La, antinuclear antibodies (ANA), rheumatoid factor, blood count, inflammatory markers and immunoglobulin levels. Anti-SSA/Ro can support the diagnosis, but a positive result alone does not prove Sjögren's. A negative result does not completely exclude it.

3. Schirmer's Test and Eye Surface Examination

Schirmer's testing measures tear production using a small paper strip placed near the lower eyelid. An ophthalmologist may also use special dyes to examine the eye surface for dryness-related damage and assess tear-film stability.

4. Salivary Flow Testing

Unstimulated saliva production may be measured over a set period. Low flow can support the diagnosis and help assess the degree of salivary gland dysfunction.

5. Minor Salivary Gland (Lip) Biopsy

In selected cases, a small sample of tissue from minor salivary glands inside the lower lip is examined for characteristic immune-cell inflammation. A biopsy may be especially useful when blood antibody tests are negative but clinical suspicion remains. It is not necessary for every patient.

6. Salivary Gland Ultrasound and Other Imaging

Ultrasound may help identify structural changes in the salivary glands and can support specialist assessment. It is useful in some settings but does not replace the full clinical evaluation or automatically establish the diagnosis.

Sjögren's Syndrome Treatment Options

There is currently no established cure. Treatment aims to relieve dryness, protect the eyes and teeth, manage pain and fatigue, and treat organ inflammation when present. The plan depends on which symptoms and organs are affected.

1. Treatment for Dry Eyes

• Artificial tears, often preservative-free when used frequently.
• Lubricating eye gels or ointments, especially at night if recommended.
• Prescription eye drops that reduce inflammation for selected patients.
• Moisture-chamber glasses or environmental adjustments for persistent symptoms.
• Punctal plugs in selected cases to slow tear drainage, after an eye specialist's assessment.

Persistent eye pain, light sensitivity or blurred vision needs eye assessment because severe dryness can damage the corneal surface.

2. Treatment for Dry Mouth

• Frequent small sips of water and a water bottle within reach.
• Saliva substitutes, sprays or gels to improve comfort.
• Sugar-free gum or lozenges, preferably with xylitol if suitable, to stimulate saliva.
• Prescription medicines such as pilocarpine or cevimeline may be considered for selected people with remaining gland function.
• Regular dental reviews and fluoride prevention based on individual cavity risk.

3. Dental and Oral Health Protection

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between teeth and follow a dentist's advice about prescription-strength fluoride if needed. Limit frequent sugary snacks and acidic drinks, which can increase tooth damage when saliva is low. Avoid tobacco and discuss persistent mouth soreness, white patches or suspected thrush with a dentist or doctor.

4. Managing Joint Pain and Fatigue

Gentle regular activity, pacing, adequate sleep and treatment of contributing conditions may help. Pain medicines or disease-modifying treatments may be considered according to the cause and severity. Hydroxychloroquine or other immune-modifying medicines may be used in selected systemic situations, but they do not reliably resolve dryness for everyone.

5. Treatment for Systemic Organ Involvement

If Sjögren's affects the lungs, kidneys, blood vessels, nerves or other organs, treatment is tailored to the specific problem. Depending on severity, specialists may consider corticosteroids, immunosuppressive medicines or other targeted treatment. These medicines require careful monitoring and are not routinely needed for people with uncomplicated dryness alone.

6. Neurological Symptoms

Numbness, tingling, burning pain, weakness or balance changes need evaluation because nerve symptoms can have several causes. A 2026 American College of Rheumatology clinical practice guideline addresses evaluation and management of peripheral nervous system manifestations in Sjögren's disease. Care may involve rheumatology and neurology, with treatment selected according to the type and severity of nerve involvement.

Daily Lifestyle and Self-Care Tips

• Avoid smoking and limit exposure to dry, smoky or dusty environments.
• Consider a clean humidifier if indoor air is very dry; follow manufacturer cleaning instructions to prevent mould or bacteria.
• Review medicines with a clinician or pharmacist if dryness began or worsened after a medication change. Do not stop prescribed treatment independently.
• Use vaginal moisturisers or lubricants when appropriate and ask a clinician about persistent discomfort.
• Keep regular eye, dental and rheumatology appointments according to your care plan.

Possible Complications of Sjögren's Disease

• Eye surface damage: Severe untreated dryness can cause inflammation, scratches or damage to the cornea.
• Dental decay and oral infections: Reduced saliva increases the risk of cavities, gum disease and oral candidiasis.
• Systemic inflammation: Some people develop lung, kidney, liver, blood-vessel, skin, joint or nerve involvement.
• Peripheral neuropathy: Nerve involvement may cause numbness, tingling, burning pain, weakness or balance difficulties.
• Lymphoma: Sjögren's is associated with an increased risk of certain B-cell lymphomas compared with the general population, although most people with Sjögren's do not develop lymphoma.

Risk is not the same for everyone. Persistent salivary gland enlargement, unexplained lymph-node swelling, purplish skin spots, fevers, drenching night sweats or unintentional weight loss should be discussed promptly with a clinician. These symptoms do not automatically mean lymphoma, but they should not be ignored.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Arrange an appointment if dry eyes or dry mouth persist, recur frequently, interfere with eating or vision, or require repeated use of lubricating products. A primary-care clinician can review common causes and refer to rheumatology, ophthalmology or dentistry as appropriate.

Can Sjögren's Syndrome Be Prevented?

There is no proven method to prevent Sjögren's disease because its exact cause is not known. However, early recognition and regular care can reduce some complications. Protecting the eye surface, preventing dental decay, treating infections and monitoring systemic symptoms are practical ways to protect health after diagnosis.

Living Well With Sjögren's Disease

Sjögren's can affect sleep, concentration, work, eating and social comfort. A coordinated care plan can make daily life easier. Rheumatologists may oversee systemic disease, ophthalmologists manage eye complications, dentists protect oral health, and other specialists may help with lung, kidney, nerve or vaginal symptoms.

Keep a record of dryness, pain, fatigue, gland swelling and any new symptoms. Bring an updated medicine list to appointments, since some common medicines can worsen dryness. Ask your care team which symptoms need routine follow-up and which require urgent attention.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sjögren's Syndrome

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Trusted Medical Sources and Further Reading

• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR): Sjögren's Disease — symptoms, causes and general care.
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS): Diagnosis, Treatment and Steps to Take — diagnostic tests, eye and mouth care and specialist support.
• American College of Rheumatology: Sjögren's Disease — patient information and clinical overview.
• British Society for Rheumatology Guideline on Management of Adult and Juvenile-Onset Sjögren Disease — evidence-based recommendations for assessment and care.
• 2026 ACR Clinical Practice Guideline: Peripheral Nervous System Manifestations in Sjögren's Disease — evaluation and management of nerve-related complications.
• American Dental Association: Sjögren Disease — oral symptoms, dental risks and prevention.

Conclusion: Early Recognition Helps Protect Long-Term Health

Sjögren's syndrome is a systemic autoimmune disease best known for causing dry eyes and dry mouth. It can also contribute to fatigue, joint pain, dental problems and, in some people, complications involving the lungs, kidneys, skin, blood vessels or nerves.

There is no established cure, but practical eye and mouth care, dental prevention, symptom-relieving treatments and specialist management of systemic disease can make a meaningful difference. Persistent gland swelling, unexplained weight loss, night sweats or new neurological symptoms deserve medical review.

Medical disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Dry eyes and dry mouth can have many causes, including medicines and environmental factors. Do not start, stop or change prescription medicines based on this article. Seek personalised advice from a qualified healthcare professional, and obtain urgent care for sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, breathing difficulty, chest pain or rapidly worsening neurological symptoms.