4 Things You Need To Know About Sjogren's Syndrome
Posted on: 14 April 2015
Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease, which means that it makes your body's immune system attack your own healthy tissues, instead of the germs and viruses that it should be fighting. Sjogren's syndrome attacks your moisture-producing glands in particular, which has serious affects on your eyes. Here's what you need to know about this disease.
How does Sjogren's syndrome affect your eyes?
Sjogren's syndrome attacks your lacrimal glands. The lacrimal glands are small glands just above your eye that produce tears. When lacrimal glands are functioning normally, they produce a constant stream of tears to keep the eyes moist and clean. When you have Sjogren's syndrome, these glands aren't able to function properly, and the result are chronically dry eyes.
Why are dry eyes a problem?
Dry eyes cause a lot of discomfort, such as a burning feeling in your eyes, but discomfort isn't the only thing you have to worry about. Chronic dryness can also damage your eyes.
One problem that people with dry eyes need to worry about is conjunctivitis. This is an inflammation of the outer lining of your eyes. If you have this side effect, your eyelids will be stuck together when you wake up in the morning, and your eyes will be red and uncomfortable.
A more serious problem that is associated with dry eyes is keratitis, inflammation of the cornea. This can result in ulcers or infection of your cornea, and both of these can have devastating effects on your sight.
Can Sjoren's syndrome be cured?
There's no way to cure Sjoren's syndrome, at least not yet, so this is something that you'll have to deal with for the rest of your life. Fortunately, there are some treatments available that will ease your symptoms.
How can your optometrist help?
Your optometrist can recommend a brand of over-the-counter artificial tears that will work for you, or they may even suggest prescription eye drops. Prescription eye drops may contain antibiotics to fight off infections or corticosteroids to reduce swelling and inflammation. If you can't use eye drops, you may be able to get prescription eye inserts instead. These sit beneath your lower eyelid and slowly dissolve, producing a steady stream of artificial tears throughout the day.
There are also special types of contact lenses called bandage lenses that hold moisture against the surface of your eye. These may be an option for you as well.
Sjogren's syndrome causes dry eyes and can cause both discomfort and permanent damage. If you've been diagnosed with Sjogren's syndrome, you need to see an optometrist, such as those found at Blink Eyewear Eyewear Calgary, right away so that you can start treatment.
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