.png)
Understanding Sjögren’s Syndrome, Its Symptoms, and Causes
Sjögren’s Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues — especially the glands that produce moisture, like tears and saliva. This leads to common symptoms such as dry eyes, dry mouth, and joint pain. However, in some cases, it can also affect the kidneys, lungs, nerves, and other organs.
Is Sjögren’s Considered a Critical Illness?
In general, insurance companies define "critical illness" as conditions like cancer, heart attacks, or strokes — illnesses that are immediately life-threatening or cause major, sudden disabilities.
Sjögren’s Syndrome, while serious and life-changing, is not typically classified as a critical illness. However, if it leads to severe complications — such as lymphoma (a cancer of the lymphatic system), kidney failure, or severe lung disease — it may then meet the criteria for a critical illness under certain policies.
Early diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management are key to controlling symptoms and preventing complications.
Symptoms of Sjögren’s Syndrome
Sjögren’s can vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms include:
- Dry eyes — A gritty, burning, or stinging feeling in the eyes
- Dry mouth — Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or tasting; increased thirst
- Swollen salivary glands — Especially noticeable around the jaw or in front of the ears
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Dry skin or rashes
- Extreme fatigue — Persistent tiredness that isn’t relieved by rest
- Chronic dry cough or dry airways
- Vaginal dryness (in women)
- Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
In more severe cases, the disease can lead to complications affecting major organs and nerves.
Causes of Sjögren’s Syndrome
The exact cause of Sjögren’s isn’t completely known, but several factors seem to be involved:
- Autoimmune Reaction: The immune system mistakenly attacks the body's moisture-producing glands.
- Genetics: Family history may increase the risk of developing Sjögren’s.
- Infections: Certain viral or bacterial infections could trigger the disease in some individuals.
- Other Autoimmune Diseases: Sjögren’s often occurs alongside conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Sjögren’s is much more common in women, particularly those over the age of 40.
Final Thoughts
Sjögren’s Syndrome is a serious autoimmune condition that can greatly impact daily life. While it’s not usually classified as a critical illness on its own, it can lead to serious complications if left untreated. If you experience persistent dry eyes, dry mouth, unusual fatigue, or joint pain, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional early.
Awareness, early intervention, and proper management make a world of difference for people living with Sjögren’s.
#SjögrensSyndrome #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicIllness #HealthAwareness #SjögrensAwareness #LivingWithSjögrens #DryEyesDryMouth