As of: March 17, 2024, 7:00 p.m
By: Judith Braun
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In an autoimmune disease, the immune system attacks the body's own structures.
Sjögen syndrome primarily affects moisture-producing glands.
The so-called Sjögren's syndrome (named after the Swedish ophthalmologist Henrik Sjögren) is an autoimmune disease that progresses slowly.
According to information from Zurich University Hospital,
the body's own immune system attacks
the tear and salivary gland tissue.
This is particularly noticeable in problems with the eyes and mouth.
Immune system attacks body: Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease
Itchy or burning eyes can be an accompanying symptom of Sjögren's syndrome.
© Pond5 Images/IMAGO
According to t-online.de,
women are
more often affected by Sjögren's syndrome than men.
In sick people, the immune system attacks the glands and mucous membranes that provide moisture and impairs their function.
These include, in particular, tear and salivary glands.
Since these moisture-producing glands are damaged, the autoimmune disease is primarily noticeable with symptoms associated with severe dryness.
Sjögren's syndrome can usually first be recognized by characteristic signs such as dry eyes or a dry mouth.
At the same time, signs associated with dry eyes or dry mouth may also occur, such as itchy, burning or red eyes and increased sensitivity to light.
This can cause problems in the mouth area such as bad breath or difficulty speaking.
The disease also manifests itself through individually different symptoms and varying degrees of severity.
It also happens that the severity of the symptoms changes as the disease progresses.
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Recognize Sjögren's syndrome: If you suspect it, consult your family doctor, dentist or ophthalmologist
Anyone who suffers from the typical symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome should have the exact cause clarified by a doctor.
General practitioners, dentists or ophthalmologists can be a first point of contact.
However, the syndrome is usually only recognized late because other illnesses can also lead to dry eyes or dry mouth.
In addition, the disease usually progresses slowly and develops over years.
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This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.