Sjorgren’s Syndrome: Treatments Can Help
Did you know that 4 million Americans are affected by Sjorgren’s syndrome every year? Sjorgren’s syndrome is a little-known autoimmune disease whereby the body attacks its own mucous membrane tissues including saliva glands and tear glands as if they were foreign to the body. There is no cure at this time.
It is said that alternative treatments, when employed in conjunction with traditional medications, can bring the sufferers a better quality of life, but neither is a cure. All treatments, whether conventional or alternative, are focused on treating the condition by rehydrating the affected mucous membrane tissues, and on strengthening the immune system.
The typical symptoms of Sjorgren’s syndrome are dry eyes, a dry mouth, and in women, a dry vagina. The dryness of the eyes can cause itchiness, irritation, and a burning sensation, and they become more sensitive to bright light. The dryness to the mouth of course makes swallowing more of a problem, and impairs speech. It also affects the ability to taste food, (with many people reporting a diminished taste sensation), and it can also heighten the likelihood of cavities developing.
In addition, symptoms can include skin rashes, joint pain, fatigue, and dry, itchy skin overall. The treatments currently available do help relieve dryness of the eyes and mouth; however, they are only effective for a limited period of time. When the medication wears off, so do the benefits, so these medications must be used frequently or continuously to provide relief.
Additional alternative treatments are gaining in popularity. Such alternatives include homeopathy, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, and acupuncture. Some research suggests Willow Bark may relief mouth dryness-which helps with speaking, tasting, and reducing the formation of cavities-and Omega 3 fatty oil supplements may help alleviate dry eyes.
You can also help control the symptoms of Sjorgren’s syndrome by controlling your home and personal environment. Utilize a humidifier to add humidity to the air in your home, drink lots of liquids to hydrate your mouth and body, and use lotion to keep your skin moist and hydrated. For women, keep vaginal creams available to relieve discomfort as needed.
It is also helpful to minimize drafts of air or breezes. Try not to use fans as they can dry out eyes, nasal passages, and the skin even faster. Use damp, warm compresses to help refresh eyes. Sleep with a mask. Take frequent breaks when doing bookwork. And utilize eye drops or eye moisturizers often.
Sjorgren’s syndrome is a serious condition that requires a physician’s care and treatment-and also requires the attention of eye and dental specialists. For instance, since dryness of the eyes can lead to corneal damage, an opthalmologist should be involved in your care. And since dry mouth causes increased risk of cavities, you should see your dentist more often than people without Sjorgren’s sydrome. Nonetheless, with proper care and treatment, including alternative therapies, sufferers can live healthy, active lives with this disease.
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