A disorder of your immune system identified by dry eyes and a dry mouth.

What is a Sjogren's syndrome?

Sjogren's syndrome is a disorder of your immune system identified by its two most common symptoms — dry eyes and a dry mouth.

The condition often accompanies other immune system disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

Although you can develop Sjogren's syndrome at any age, most people are older than 40 at the time of diagnosis.

The condition is much more common in women. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms.

Symptoms

As already mentioned the two main symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome are dry eyes and dry mouth.

Some people with Sjogren's syndrome also have one or more of the following:

Joint pain, swelling and stiffness
Swollen salivary glands — particularly the set located behind your jaw and in front of your ears
Skin rashes or dry skin
Vaginal dryness
Persistent dry cough
Prolonged fatigue

Causes

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder. Your immune system mistakenly attacks your body's own cells and tissues.

Scientists aren't certain why some people develop Sjogren's syndrome. Certain genes put people at higher risk of the disorder.

Also it appears that a triggering mechanism — such as infection with a particular virus or strain of bacteria — is also necessary.

In Sjogren's syndrome, your immune system first targets the glands that make tears and saliva.

But it can also damage other parts of your body, such as:

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