Sjogren's Syndrome: Indications It Could Be More Serious

The Gastrointestinal System Is Performing Poorly

The lack of saliva in those with Sjogren's syndrome cause a wealth of problems for the gastrointestinal tract and the digestion and breaking-down of foods and acids. The lack of saliva can impede the clearing of acid from the stomach which can result in acid reflux. This condition can also cause abdominal pain due to the build-up of acid, and some symptoms are even appendicitis-like. Problems with the esophagus can lead to some dry foods being unable to be eaten by individuals with Sjogren's syndrome. Specifically, patients with this condition are at increased risk for a delayed gastric emptying; this causes nausea, upper abdominal discomfort, and vomiting. In very rare cases, Sjorgen's syndrome patients can develop pancreatitis (acute or chronic) as well as malabsorption due to pancreatic insufficiency.

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Swollen Salivary Glands

As we know with Sjogren's syndrome, the immune system attacks the body's tissues, and it often occurs alongside other autoimmune diseases. When swollen salivary glands are a symptom of Sjogren's syndrome, they most commonly include the glands in front of the ears and behind the jaw. Though the condition is caused by an underlying autoimmune response, swollen glands are often a sign of an infection. Patients who experience swollen glands alone may have a virus or bacteria inside the affected gland. In Sjogren's syndrome, the reduced amount of saliva allows bacteria to grow in the gland. Other common causes of swelling are severe dehydration, a blockage in the gland, or poor oral hygiene.

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