Understanding Sjögren’s Syndrome (July 2025)
I remember when I was a dietetics student, and my professor and mentor Dr. Christine Hamilton Smith lectured on Sjögren’s Syndrome. I also remember seeing questions about this condition when I was studying for and taking the RD examination. Some 28 years later, I’m not only reflecting on the number of patients with Sjögren’s Syndrome I’ve seen in my practice, but I’ve learned I have the condition myself.
You’re probably wondering, “What’s Sjögren’s Syndrome?” Sjögren’s is an autoimmune disease that affects the salivary glands, causing dry eyes and a dry mouth. Some people also experience joint pain, gastrointestinal distress, lymphoma, fatigue, vaginal dryness and cavities.
I decided to write about this condition because I feel it’s not discussed enough. This relative silence can cause people to think the symptoms they’re experiencing may be “all in their head.”
Sjögren’s is diagnosed by a rheumatologist, a doctor who specializes in autoimmune and musculoskeletal disorders. Tests used for diagnosis include:
Blood Tests. SS-A (or Ro) and SS-B (or La) are marker antibodies for Sjögren’s that can be detected in the blood. 70% of Sjögren’s patients are positive for SS-A and 40% are positive for SS-B. These markers are also found in lupus patients.
Eye Tests. The Schirmer test measures tear production. Staining the eyes with rose bengal and lissamine green dyes allows your doctor to examine the surface of your eyes to look for dry spots or damage.
Dental Tests. Salivary flow tests measure the amount of saliva you produce over a certain period of time. A salivary gland biopsy (usually in the lower lip) looks for inflammation of the glands that produce saliva and tears.
Since learning that I have Sjögren’s Syndrome, I decided I wanted to also educate my readers about this condition, because for those of us who have it, making changes in our lives is important. Examples of necessary dietary changes I’ve made in my own life include:
- Avoiding spicy and fried foods (these foods can decrease saliva production)
- Minimizing carbonated beverages, caffeine and alcohol
- Using alcohol free mouth wash, specific toothpastes and rinses that my dentist and periodontist have recommended
- Making myself a priority.
It’s also important to prioritize sleep and manage stress in your life. I want to be a voice for the Sjögren’s community, and I hope you can find the courage to ask questions when you have concerns or doubts about your body, no matter what symptoms you’re experiencing. No one knows your body better than you.
