低睾酮：男性症状、病因及治疗

Overview

Sjogren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks the moisture-producing glands in your eyes and mouth, leading to persistent dry eyes and dry mouth. It can also affect other parts of the body, including joints, lungs, kidneys, and nerves, and is 9 times more common in people assigned female at birth. Most people are diagnosed between ages 40 and 60, and while there is no cure, personalized treatment can effectively manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms vary widely from person to person, and may be mild or severe. The most common primary symptoms affect the eyes and mouth, while secondary symptoms can impact other body systems. Many people experience symptoms for years before receiving a diagnosis.

• Persistent gritty, burning, or itchy sensation in the eyes; blurry vision or sensitivity to light
• Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or tasting food; frequent mouth sores or hoarseness
• Frequent dental cavities or gum disease, even with regular brushing
• Unexplained joint pain, muscle aches, or persistent fatigue
• Dry skin, vaginal dryness, or a persistent dry cough

Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause of Sjogren’s syndrome is not fully understood, but it is classified as an autoimmune condition, meaning the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells and tissues. In Sjogren’s, the immune system targets the lacrimal (tear) and salivary (saliva) glands, reducing their ability to produce moisture. Risk factors include being assigned female at birth, having a family history of autoimmune disease, being between 40 and 60 years old at onset, and having another existing autoimmune condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

Diagnosis

There is no single test for Sjogren’s syndrome, so doctors use a combination of symptom review, physical exams, and specialized tests to confirm a diagnosis. Your care team may include a rheumatologist (autoimmune specialist), dentist, and ophthalmologist (eye doctor) to evaluate all your symptoms.

Treatment & Management

There is no cure for Sjogren’s syndrome, so treatment focuses on relieving your most bothersome symptoms, managing pain and fatigue, and preventing long-term complications. Your treatment plan will be personalized based on which parts of your body are affected, and may be adjusted over time as your symptoms change.

• Preservative-free over-the-counter or prescription artificial tears and eye ointments to relieve dry eye and protect the cornea
• Prescription medications like pilocarpine or cevimeline to stimulate saliva and tear production
• Immunosuppressive medications such as hydroxychloroquine or methotrexate to reduce joint pain, fatigue, and inflammation from systemic disease
• Regular dental cleanings and fluoride treatments to prevent cavities and gum disease caused by dry mouth
• Lifestyle adjustments such as using a humidifier, staying hydrated, and avoiding symptom triggers like caffeine and smoke

Living With It

Small, consistent daily adjustments can drastically improve your quality of life with Sjogren’s. Work with your care team to build a long-term management plan, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support if you’re struggling with symptom flares or emotional stress. Many people with Sjogren’s live full, active lives with proper care and symptom management.