The majority of women suffering from Sjgren’s syndrome report that symptoms interfere with daily activities, including work, household and leisure, according to a recent survey. Sjgren’s syndrome, one of the most common autoimmune diseases, attacks the moisture-producing glands and primarily causes severe dry eyes and dry mouth. It affects up to 4 million people in the United States, 90 percent of whom are women.
When asked which symptoms originally motivated sufferers to see a doctor for treatment, more than 70 percent of respondents indicated dry eyes (75 percent) and dry mouth (72 percent). The survey polled 3,190 members (94 percent women) of the Sjgren’s Syndrome Foundation.
In addition, the survey uncovered that the average time between the onset of first symptoms and diagnosis is 6.5 years. The symptoms of Sjgren’s can mimic other conditions, making diagnosis difficult.
Unfortunately, there is no one test to diagnose Sjgren’s syndrome. When Sjgren’s syndrome is suspected, a series of tests is administered, which aims to determine the degree of mouth and eye dryness and measure antibody markers in the...