An auto immune disorder, Sjogren’s syndrome has two main symptoms: dry eyes and dry mouth. The glands responsible for secreting fluid are infiltrated by immune system cells (usually B and T lymphocytes). These glands become inflamed, leading to decreased production of water for tears and eye moisturize. The salivary glands in the mouth are also dry.
See information about MSM drops for dry eye support.
Sjogren’s syndrome comes in two forms. Primary Sjogren’s syndrome is a disease in its own right. Secondary Sjogren’s syndrome is associated with diseases of the connective tissues such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, etc. Sjogren’s syndrome results in dry mouth, eyes and other areas of the body.
The vast majority of Sjogren’s syndrome sufferers are female – – 90%. Its cause is unknown, but there may be inherited factors. Most of the research focuses on genetics, gene therapy and immunity therapy.
Conventional treatment includes a medication called Restasis which relieves dry eyes but may have side effects such as pneumonia. Treatment for a dry mouth may include pilocarpine and cevimeline. Prednisone is sometimes prescribed as an anti-inflammatory, and autoimmune suppressants may also be prescribed.
Natural options for dealing with dry eyes associated Sjogren’s syndrome may include essential fatty acids (an antioxidant), green tea, homeopathic eye drops for dry eyes, drinking plenty of water, and using a humidifier to add moisture to bedroom air. MSM eye drops have also been useful, as well as other supplements designed to help the eyes.
A small study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology showed a 68% decrease in dry eye symptoms in early syndrome patients who took essential fatty acids for eight weeks. A study in Autoimmunity looked at the effect of a component of green tea (EGCG) and discovered that this compound reduced the impact of Sjogren’s syndrome in mice.
A young woman with Sjogren’s syndrome found relief with MSM eye drops from NaturalEyeCare.com. These MSM drops soften eye tissues, equalize pressure, repair damaged membranes, and help enable tissues to absorb nutrients for better vision. Click to read her testimonial. MSM eye drops are helpful for many types of dry eyes.
Another Sjogren’s syndrome sufferer said, “The eyedrops and supplements that you recommended for my Sjogren’s Syndrome are working wonderfully. My eyes feel awesome since beginning the regimen.” She took Oasis Tears, BioTears Gel Caps, VisionTone Formula, MSM Capsules, and Advanced Eye & Vision Support Formula.
A complete list of suggestions for Sjogren’s syndrome can be found on Natural Eye Care’s Sjogren’s syndrome page.
Oxholm P, Manthorpe R, Prause JU, Horrobin D:Patients with Primary Sjogrn’s Syndrome Treated for 2 Months With Evening Primrose Oil. Scand J Rheumatology 1986; 15:103-108.
March, 2007, Autoimmunity, Medical College of Georgia researchers Stephen Hsu, et al.