In Sjogren's syndrome, the immune system attacks the glands that make tears and saliva. As a result, the eyes can become so dry that it feels as though there is sand in them. The mouth can become so dry that it may be hard to swallow. People with this condition commonly have a potassium deficiency, which contributes to dry eye symptoms.
What is Sjogren's Syndrome?
Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease, or a disease in which the immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. In Sjogren's, the lymphocyte type of white blood cells attack the lacrimal glands that make tears and the salivary glands that make saliva. Approximately 90 percent of the people with this disease are women, according to "Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment." Most are between the ages of 40 and 60.
Symptoms of Sjogren's Syndrome
For most people, the disease progresses so slowly that it is eight to 10 years from the time of first symptoms to the full disease, according to "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine." Their eyes become very dry, may itch and burn, and feel gritty. Extreme mouth dryness often is experienced, making it necessary for some people to carry water bottles so they can keep mouths moist.
Evaluation
Lab results will show antibodies that are called "antinuclear." More than 70 percent of sufferers will have rheumatoid factor, an antibody that people with rheumatoid arthritis also have, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. People may have a Schirmer's test to see how many tears they can produce. A stain of the eye using eyedrops can check for ulcers on the eye. A biopsy of the salivary glands will show the lymphocyte white blood cells.
Treatment
People with Sjogren's syndrome should use artificial tears, frequently sip water, and use hard candy or sugar-free gum to prevent their eyes and mouth from drying out. There also are medications available that will increase the production of saliva, called cevimeline and pilocarpine. People with this disease should not use decongestants because they decrease the secretion of saliva. Regular visits to the dentist and the use of fluoride is essential as protection for the teeth.
Potassium Deficiency
The potassium level in the bloodstream should normally be between 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. Levels that are below 3.5 mEq/L are referred to as hypokalemia, which is the medical term for low levels of potassium in the bloodstream. This can happen for several reasons as described by "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine." A potassium deficiency can be due to insulin, diarrhea, vomiting, various kidney diseases, diuretics, eating an excessive amount of licorice, sniffing glue and some diseases of the adrenal gland.
References
- "Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2011"; Stephen McPhee, M.D., Maxine Papadakis, M.D.; 2011
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine"; Anthony Fauci, M.D., Dennis Kasper, M.D., Dan Longo, M.D. et al.; 2008
- Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Sjogren's Syndrome
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