Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome From A Patient's Perspective

Since 9 out 10 people with Sjögren’s Syndrome are female, I am in the minority.  I was diagnosed in May of 2009, after being hospitalized with an unusual lung infection.  I had honestly thought that I had Sjögren’s at least 1 year earlier, because my mouth was always so dry.

Fatigue seems to be one of the primary symptoms for me, after extremely dry mouth.  Swallowing is difficult and I never sit down without water, if I’m to eat anything.

Sjögren’s Syndrome is one of the mildest of the autoimmune diseases, but it is progressive.  If you suspect you have Sjögren’s Syndrome, contact your physician and, if you have the disease, get a good rheumatologist on board.

Dr. James G. Hood