The Connection Between Sjogren's Syndrome and Other Chronic Conditions
It’s common for many people with chronic illnesses to have other conditions they’re managing. One of those conditions is Sjogren’s syndrome. Sjogren’s syndrome arises when the immune system attacks glands that create moisture in the body. The main symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome are dry eyes and mouth, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain.
Sjogren’s syndrome can develop independently but is associated with other chronic conditions. The condition is also more common in women than men, with a ratio of approximately 9:1.
Here’s a look at the relationship between Sjogren’s syndrome and other chronic illnesses.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune disease primarily affecting the joints. People living with RA often have Sjogren’s syndrome as a secondary chronic condition. According to a 2020 study, 30% of people with RA also have Sjogren’s syndrome. Also, RA and Sjogren's syndrome share many similarities, including the presence of autoantibodies and cytokine involvement. Cytokines are molecules that play a role in the immune response.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common form of lupus, is another autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and tissue damage. SLE can affect the joints, skin, kidneys, lungs, and blood vessels. Like RA, SLE is another autoimmune disorder that can occur alongside Sjogren's syndrome. Up to 15 to 18% of people with SLE also have Sjogren’s syndrome.
Scleroderma
Scleroderma is an autoimmune and rheumatic disease that causes skin inflammation and other body areas. This chronic condition can cause a person’s skin to thicken and harden, leading to a buildup of scar tissue. Also, scleroderma can affect internal organs like the lungs and kidneys. Sjogren's syndrome is often seen in patients with scleroderma, with an estimated 20% of people having the condition.
Thyroid disorders
Thyroid disorders, like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, arise when the thyroid gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormone. Thyroid disorders can lead to health problems affecting the heart, metabolism, bones, pregnancy, and mood. Many thyroid disorders often coexist with Sjogren’s syndrome. In fact, 14% of people with hypothyroidism have Sjogren’s syndrome. The connection between the two conditions is not understood, but it is thought that they may share common genetic and environmental factors.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that can cause pain, body tenderness, fatigue, and sleeping problems. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, though it seems those with the condition have a high pain sensitivity. According to some research studies, primary Sjogren’s syndrome has been found in 44 to 55% of people with fibromyalgia. Like thyroid disorders, the relationship between fibromyalgia and Sjogren’s syndrome may have commonalities involving environmental and genetic factors.
Raynaud’s phenomenon
Raynaud’s phenomenon is a chronic condition causing the narrowing of blood vessels, thus restricting blood flow. As a result, people with Raynaud’s phenomenon often experience decreased blood flow in the fingers and toes. Raynaud’s phenomenon occurs in approximately 38% of people with Sjogren’s syndrome.
Unfortunately, more research is needed to understand the connection between Sjogren’s syndrome and other chronic conditions. However, these chronic conditions are assumed to coexist due to environmental and genetic similarities. For example, many chronic conditions run in families, which suggests a genetic factor. Also, environmental factors, like toxins, stress, and infections, may trigger the development of chronic conditions.
Sjogren's syndrome is often connected to other chronic conditions, both autoimmune and non-autoimmune. While the connection between these conditions is not fully understood, they may share common genetic and environmental factors. Managing many chronic conditions can be challenging, but with the help of healthcare providers, patients can develop an effective treatment plan that considers all their conditions and improves their health and quality of life.
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