What is Sjogren's syndrome?

Sjogren's syndrome is an auto-immune disorder. In auto-immune disorders the body attacks its own cells and tissues. Though the cause is largely unknown, it is generally believed that a combination of factors are responsible for initiating this condition. These may include hereditary factors, hormonal changes or a viral infection.

Symptoms

This syndrome is characterized by the overproduction of white blood cells called lymphocytes, which attack and damage the moisture-producing glands in the body. Other organs, including the lungs, kidneys and liver may be damaged as well. Symptoms of this syndrome may include fatigue, low-grade fever, enlarged parotid glands, difficulty swallowing or chewing, hoarseness, dry cough, dryness of skin, nose and vagina. Other symptoms include skin rash, oral yeast infection, bruises and bleeding from the nose, joint pain, swelling and stiffness.

Sjogren's syndrome is an auto-immune disorder