Sjögren’s syndrome (pronounced “Schögrehn’s syndrome”) is a disease in which the body’s own immune system attacks mainly salivary and lacrimal glands. As a result of inflammation, the glands produce less fluid, which leads to dry eyes with conjunctivitis and a dry mouth. The disease can then spread to the whole body and also attack internal organs, muscles and joints. A total of about 0.4% of the German population is affected, with women being ten times more likely to fall ill than men.
Sjögren’s syndrome occurs both as an independent disease and as a consequence of other diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or Lupus erythematosus.
A cure is not yet possible, but a relief of the symptoms. These include sufficient humidity of the ambient air, an optimal fluid intake, avoidance of draughts and the use of moistening eye drops.
