Symptoms of primary Sjogrens Syndrome
What are the clinical manifestations of primary Sjogrens Syndrome?
Manifestations can be divided into sicca symptoms and extraglandular features, which are seen in 75% of patients and may precede the development of KCS.
Clinical Manifestations of Primary Sjogren’s Syndrome
| Sicca Symptoms | Prevalence (%) |
|---|---|
| Xerophthalmia | 90–95 |
| Xerostomia | 90–95 |
| Dyspareunia | 40–60 |
| Parotid gland enlargement | 40–60 |
| Extraglandular features | |
| Fatigue | 60–70 |
| Arthralgias/arthritis | 45–60 |
| Raynaud’s phenomenon | 13–33 |
| Esophageal dysfunction | 30–35 |
| Autoimmune thyroid disease | 14–33 |
| Lymphadenopathy | 15–20 |
| Lung involvement | 10–20 |
| Kidney involvement | 5–10 |
| Liver involvement | 5–10 |
| Cutaneous vasculitis | 5–10 |
| Lymphoma | 5–10 |
| Peripheral neuropathy | 2–5 |
| Central nervous system disease | 1–2 |
| Myositis | 1–2 |
- Dry Eyes (Xerophthalmia): Persistent dryness, irritation, and a gritty sensation in the eyes.
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Reduced saliva production leading to dryness in the mouth, which can cause difficulty swallowing and speaking.
- Joint Pain and Stiffness: Often similar to arthritis, with pain and stiffness in the joints.
- Dry Skin: Generalized dryness of the skin.
- Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained tiredness.
- Swollen Salivary Glands: Particularly the glands behind the jaw and in front of the ears.
- Cognitive Issues: Some individuals may experience problems with memory and concentration.
- Other Symptoms: Sjögren’s syndrome can also affect organs such as the kidneys, lungs, and liver in more severe cases.
These symptoms can vary widely in severity and may come and go over time. If you suspect you have Sjögren’s syndrome, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.
