In short
Sjögren's disease is an autoimmune condition that attacks the glands that make tears and saliva, causing long-lasting dry eyes and dry mouth, often with tiredness and joint pain. It cannot be cured yet, but daily eye and mouth care plus treatment keep most symptoms well controlled.
On this page
What is Sjögren's disease?
The immune system targets the moisture-making glands, mainly those that produce tears and saliva. It can also affect the joints and, less often, the lungs, kidneys or liver.
It can occur on its own (primary Sjögren's) or alongside another autoimmune disease such as RA or lupus (secondary Sjögren's).
What are the symptoms of Sjögren's?
- Dry mouth A sticky feeling, trouble swallowing, more tooth decay.
- Dry eyes Gritty, burning, red or light-sensitive.
- Fatigue Out of proportion to how much you rest.
- Joint pain Aching, stiffness or swelling.
- Swollen glands Tender swelling in front of the ears.
- Other dryness Dry skin, nose or vagina.
How is Sjögren's diagnosed?
- Blood tests GlossaryANA (Antinuclear Antibody)A blood test for antibodies against the body's own cells. Positive in most people with lupus, but also in many people without it — a first step, not a diagnosis.All terms A–Z, and the more specific GlossaryAnti-SSA (Ro) / Anti-SSB (La)Antibodies that strongly suggest Sjögren's disease when found on a blood test.All terms A–Z (Ro) and anti-SSB (La) antibodies.
- GlossarySchirmer's testA simple test of tear production: a small paper strip rests under the lower eyelid for a few minutes.All terms A–Z A paper strip under the eyelid measures tear production.
- Saliva tests Salivary flow rate, or imaging of the glands.
- GlossaryLip biopsyA minor procedure that takes a tiny piece of salivary gland from the inner lip to confirm Sjögren's.All terms A–Z A tiny sample of salivary gland from the inner lip.
How is Sjögren's treated?
- Eye drops Preservative-free artificial tears; prescription drops for persistent dryness.
- Dry-mouth relief Saliva substitutes, sugar-free gum, or medicines that boost saliva.
- Hydroxychloroquine Helps joint pain and wider inflammation.
- Stronger treatment Steroids, methotrexate or rituximab if organs are involved.
- Dental and eye care Regular check-ups and fluoride protect teeth and eyes.
Everyday tips
- Use eye drops regularly through the day, not only when your eyes feel dry.
- Sip water often; skip alcohol-based mouthwash and very spicy or acidic food.
- Run a humidifier, and sit away from fans, heaters and AC vents.
- Ask your doctor to review medicines that cause dryness, such as some antihistamines and antidepressants.
Questions patients ask
Isn't this just dry eyes?
Usually dryness has another cause — medicines, age or environment. Sjögren's is suspected when dryness lasts for months alongside tiredness or joint pain, and is confirmed with specific tests.
Is Sjögren's serious?
For most people it does not shorten life. Your care team watches for less common complications, including lung or kidney involvement and a small increased risk of lymphoma.
Can it occur with other autoimmune conditions?
Yes, fairly often — especially rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. This is called secondary Sjögren's.
Is there a cure for Sjögren's?
Not yet, but dry eyes and dry mouth can usually be managed well with steady daily care and treatment. It is not contagious or directly inherited.
Words worth knowing
Full glossary- ANA (Antinuclear Antibody)
- A blood test for antibodies against the body's own cells. Positive in most people with lupus, but also in many people without it — a first step, not a diagnosis.
- Anti-SSA (Ro) / Anti-SSB (La)
- Antibodies that strongly suggest Sjögren's disease when found on a blood test.
- Lip biopsy
- A minor procedure that takes a tiny piece of salivary gland from the inner lip to confirm Sjögren's.
- Schirmer's test
- A simple test of tear production: a small paper strip rests under the lower eyelid for a few minutes.
- Xerostomia / Xerophthalmia
- The medical names for dry mouth and dry eyes.
This page is intended for general patient education and does not replace personalized medical advice. Please consult your rheumatologist about your specific symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment plan. Last updated 3 October 2026.