Treatment for Sjögren’s Disease

There is no cure for Sjögren’s disease yet. But many treatments can ease your symptoms and protect your body. Since Sjögren’s affects each person differently, care is built around your own symptoms.^1-3

Treatment goals

The main goals of treatment are to relieve your symptoms and prevent complications. Because the disease can affect the eyes, mouth, and other parts of the body, your treatment plan is tailored to what you are experiencing. A plan that works well for one person may not suit another, so it helps to work closely with your healthcare team.^1-4

Is there a cure?

There is no cure for Sjögren’s. You may see products or programs that claim to cure it, but the disease cannot be cured at this time. What treatment can do is meaningful: It can reduce dryness, ease pain and fatigue, and lower the risk of damage to your body. Early diagnosis and proper treatment may prevent serious complications and improve your quality of life.^1-4

Who treats Sjögren’s?

Most people work with a primary care doctor (PCP) or a rheumatologist to manage Sjögren’s. A rheumatologist treats autoimmune and joint diseases. Because the disease can affect many areas, your care team may also include:³

• Eye doctors – Ophthalmologists or optometrists care for your eyes.
• Dentists – They help protect your teeth and treat dry mouth.
• Other specialists – Depending on your symptoms, you may see a lung, kidney, nerve, or skin specialist.

These specialists coordinate with your main doctor so your care is comprehensive and safe.³

The by-target approach

Sjögren’s treatment usually handles each area separately. Eye dryness, mouth dryness, and whole-body symptoms are each treated in their own way.¹

Many people manage dry eyes and dry mouth with over-the-counter (OTC) products and simple daily habits. Others need prescription drugs or a minor procedure.¹

Medications

Many different medicines may be used to treat the varying symptoms of Sjögren’s. Some drugs target eye dryness, some boost saliva, and some calm the immune system throughout the body. Because treatments work differently for each person, finding the right mix can take time, and your doctor will adjust your plan as needed.³

Lifestyle habits for dry eyes

These steps can ease dry eyes:^1,3,4

• Use artificial tears or eye lubricants. Drops, gels, and ointments add moisture. Ointments can blur vision, so many people use them at night. If OTC products do not help with dry eyes, talk to your doctor about prescription eye drops.
• Look for preservative-free products if you use drops many times a day.
• Increase humidity and avoid moving air. Use a humidifier and avoid sitting in front of fans or vents. Wraparound glasses can shield your eyes outdoors.
• Do not smoke, and stay out of smoky rooms, which dry the eyes.

Lifestyle habits for dry mouth

For dry mouth, these habits can help:^1,3,4

• Sip water often throughout the day to keep your mouth moist.
• Try saliva substitutes. These sprays, rinses, gels, and lozenges work longer than water.
• Stimulate saliva. Sugar-free gum or candy can boost saliva flow.
• Protect your teeth. Brush and floss after meals, use fluoride, and see your dentist regularly.
• Avoid drying drinks. Coffee, alcohol, and acidic sodas can make dry mouth or tooth problems worse.

A minor procedure for dry eyes

If self-care and drops are not enough, an eye doctor may suggest punctal occlusion. Small plugs are placed in the tear ducts so your tears stay on the eye longer.^1,2

Talk to your doctor

Treatment for Sjögren’s works best as a partnership. Tell your doctor what is and is not working, and ask before starting any new treatment, including supplements. Together, you can build a plan that fits your symptoms and your life.