Treatment for Sjögren's syndrome is aimed at relieving symptoms, and decreasing the effects of the mouth and dry eyes on a person's life, for a better quality of life, since there is no cure for this disease.
This syndrome is a chronic and autoimmune rheumatic disease, which causes inflammation and destruction of body glands, such as salivary and lacrimal, preventing the natural hydration of tissues. Learn to identify the main symptoms and how to diagnose Sjögren's syndrome.
Treatment options include:
1. Use of medicines
The medications used to alleviate the symptoms of this syndrome are prescribed by the rheumatologist, and some are:
- Pilocarpine or Cevimelin, in tablet, are useful to stimulate the functioning of the glands and to improve the symptoms of dryness;
- Artificial tears, gels or lubricating eye drops such as Lacrima Plus, Optive, Hylo Gel and Fresh Tears, for example, are used to decrease eye discomfort and prevent possible complications in the corneas;
- The extended release lubricant and ocular protector tablet based on hydroxypropyl cellulose may be placed on the lower eyelid and dissolves slowly throughout the day, used in more severe cases of dry eye;
- The propionic acid gel can be used to treat vaginal dryness;
- Simple and anti-inflammatory analgesic tablets, such as Paracetamol, Ibuprofen or Naproxen, for example, are options for relief of symptoms such as pain in the body and joints that may arise;
- Dexamethasone, Hydroxychloroquine, Methotrexate, Azathioprine, Cyclophosphamide, or Rituximab are prescribed in cases of more severe disease presentations, such as arthritis, neurological symptoms, or involvement of the lungs, vessels, or immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. blood and kidneys.
One procedure that can be done to increase the effect of artificial tears, while maintaining their action longer, is the occlusion of the tear canal, which blocks the small hole through which tears are drained from the eyes through a simple, rheumatologist and performed with a silicone plug or other material.
2. Natural treatment
There are several natural alternatives that can help relieve the symptoms of the person with Sjögren's syndrome, and some of the options are:
- Drink water in small amounts several times a day to keep the mouth moist;
- Watery mouthwashes with lemon drops or chamomile tea help relieve dryness in the mouth;
- Consuming unsweetened chewing gum or xylitol lozenges are also good alternatives to keep mouth lubrication;
- Maintain humidification of the environment, with humidifiers or use of damp cloths or aquariums, mainly at night, inside the room;
- Diet rich in omega, such as fish intake, olive oil or flaxseed oil, as they help to relieve inflammation.
In addition, it is important to always brush your teeth after meals, to avoid the consumption of sugary lotions, to prevent tooth and eye infections that are common in people with this syndrome, as bacteria can proliferate due to lack of lubrication.
3. Special daily care
Other guidelines that can be made on a daily basis to alleviate the symptoms are:
- Avoid acidic drinks, such as soft drinks and energy drinks, or caffeinated beverages, as they increase the sensation of dryness;
- Wear side-shield or wide-lens goggles because they prevent tear evaporation, block the wind and ensure more moisture to the eyes;
- Use moisturizing creams or lipsticks to reduce dryness on the lips;
- Remember to always blink your eyes because it is common to forget during activities like watching television or using the computer;
- Avoid environments with low humidity and excessive use of ventilator or air conditioning, smoke or dust;
- Avoid using excess makeup as it may contain irritating substances to the eyes and face;
It is also important to discontinue the use of medicines that cause dry eyes and mouth after medical evaluation, such as some antihypertensives, anti-depressants or antihistamines.
4. Physiotherapeutic treatment
Physiotherapy in Sjögren's syndrome is particularly important in cases of body aches, joints and arthritis, as cold and hot compresses are performed to help disinflate the joints, as well as exercises to strengthen the muscles and increase joint amplitude.
Learn more about the benefits of physical therapy to combat pain and relieve the symptoms of arthritis.
Treatment of the syndrome in pregnancy
It may happen that this syndrome is triggered during pregnancy because it is a period of hormonal changes and important emotional implications. In these cases, natural treatment with oral and ocular lubricants can be done normally, however, in more severe cases, not all medicines can be used, requiring regular follow-up and follow the guidelines of the rheumatologist and obstetrician.
In addition, a woman who is already diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome may become pregnant, but each case should be discussed with the rheumatologist and obstetrician, since in severe cases there is a risk of worsening of the symptoms and some of the mother's autoantibodies impair the development of the baby.
Suspension or replacement of some of the tablet or injectable drugs that may be harmful to the baby, such as steroids and some immunosuppressants, is also necessary.
