Conditions
Sjögren’s Syndrome
There are more than half a million sufferers of Sjögren’s Syndrome in the UK, but it’s a condition that you probably won’t have heard of. Named after the Swedish eye doctor, Henrich Sjögren, who described a ‘syndrome’ consisting of features that included: dry eyes, dry mouth, vaginal dryness and aches and pains; it is a non-life threatening condition that typically develops in women in their 30’s to 60’s, although it can develop at any age and affects both men and women. It occurs when the body’s immune system reacts against itself and destroys the mucous secreting glands (such as those producing saliva and tears) as if they were foreign bodies. Treatment is about managing symptoms and preventing or limiting organ damage. Artificial tears are used to ensure that the dry eyes remain healthy, while saliva substitutes, coming in the form of gels and mouth sprays, are used to alleviate the discomfort of a dry mouth and throat.
Comments
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Hi
I've had red eye lids for a long time and the optician said that it was blepharitis which he said was like a form of dermatitis of the eyelids/lashes. He told me to use a very dilute solution of Johnson's baby shampoo and warm water and to give the eyelashes (especially the ones on the upper lid) a gentle massage – and to not rub hard or overdo it. I've found this really helps.
I have Sjogren's Syndrome and blepharitis can be a symptom of this. I also get bloodshot eyes because they are so dry and I use Viscotears single dose units (no preservative) to lubricate my eyes. They can make your vision go blurry for a couple of minutes because they are quite viscous. Although very comforting, I haven't found that they prevent my eyes from becoming bloodshot. I think this may just be another part of the disease.
I'd be interested to know if anyone has found any cure for bloodshot eyes not caused by drink or lack of sleep!
hi
i am very much concerned to my auntie's condition,because she is sufferring from this condition,even her gp cant do sumthing about it, she had this swollened gland,because i think saliva flow is being blocked,she doesnt felt any pain,but she losses her appetite, and her gp prescribed her an antihistamine. i wish you can help her.
I was diagnosed with Sjogrens Syndrome just over 3 years ago. I'm only 23 and have an array of problems! I haven't found alot of help out there and i need some! I've just spent the last 4 days in hospital with severely swollen parotid glands, i'm so sick of being sick! Can anyone help?? Any advice??
I have lumps on the back of my throat for about yr and a half now. Sometimes white parts coming out, not oozing, just small white lumps.
Its looks very red sometimes and can hurt and even bleed.
I went to my gp and they told me it was nothing to worry about, but I am!
Help me please! : )
I would like to know why for along time and it won't go away i have two red blemmish marks on the heel of each palm of my hands. any idea's what they can mean or be? Thanks x
For dandruff-like flakes on your eyelids, possibly accompanied by stye-like swellings, check out blepharitis. But, this is common, so a doctor or pharmacist should diagnose it easily.
Hi
I have a sleep/dandruff in my eyelashes all the time and my eyelids can get quite red sometimes, I have been to the doctors several times and have been given all sorts of lotions/creams but nothing had helped.
Can you help? :-)
iya
my dad died in october and ever since when i wake up in the morning my eyes are stuck together with sleep and i get quite a lot of sleep through the day aswell my doctor has given me various drops and creams but they only stop it for a while but it eventually starts agian
any suggestions :) xxxx
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