Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease, a condition in which your immune system mistakenly attacks your own tissues. In Sjögren's syndrome, the tissues affected are mucous membranes and glands that produce tears and saliva. Thus Sjögren's syndrome is characterized by dry eyes and a dry mouth. Treatment consists mainly of relieving uncomfortable dryness symptoms. Artificial tears and eye drops ease dry eye discomfort. Proper diet and good oral health practices are important ways of managing dry mouth.
Who Can Get Sjögren's Syndrome?
Sjögren's syndrome is more common in women and in people over age 40. If you have another autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, or have family members with Sjögren's syndrome, you are more prone to the condition. Certain genes are known to make you more susceptible to Sjögren's syndrome, although MayoClinic.com reports that not everyone with those genes will go on to develop Sjögren's syndrome.
Complications of Sjögren's Syndrome
Some individuals with Sjögren's syndrome experience yeast infections of the mouth, teeth cavities, blurred vision, light sensitivity and more serious conditions including eye ulcers, lymph node cancer, hepatitis or cirrhosis of the liver, kidney malfunction, pneumonia, bronchitis and numbness and burning or tingling of the hands or feet. Sjögren's syndrome can also damage joints, skin and the thyroid gland, according to the Mayo Clinic. In rare cases, babies of mothers with Sjögren's syndrome have been born with heart problems.
Foods and Beverages that Aid Chewing and Swallowing
Sip water frequently to combat dryness, or chew gum. Drink cold liquids with meals, and use sauces, gravies, mayonnaises, yogurt and salad dressings to moisten foods. Eat creamy dishes, like soups, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and casseroles to aid swallowing. Cook vegetables well and eat moisture-rich veggies and fruits. If you're going out, take fresh fruit, applesauce or pudding in case your mouth becomes uncomfortably dry. The Sjögren's Syndrome Foundation recommends following the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society dietary guidelines.
Nutrient-rich Foods that Help Suppress Your Overactive immune System
Arthritis Today recommends regularly including the antioxidant and immune-suppressing nutrients omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), selenium and vitamin D in your diet. PUFAs are found in cold water fish, soybeans and walnuts. Selenium is available as a supplement, although you should be sure to check with your doctor if you have diabetes or a pre-diabetic condition. Vitamin D is found in eggs and in vitamin D-fortified products such as milk, cottage cheese and cereals.
Foods and Beverages to Avoid
Alcoholic beverages dry the mouth and make the symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome worse, says the Sjögren's Syndrome Foundation. Avoid carbonated soft drinks, acidic beverages, hot foods, hard or crusty foods and salty or spicy foods, because they tend to irritate a dry mouth. Pass up any foods and beverages that make your symptoms of dryness worse or irritate your mouth.
