Browse Answers
Click here to submit your rheumatology question.
filter by tag
Answers tagged Sjogren: Page 1 of 1
Tara from Alberta asks: I am looking for information on both Sjogren’s Syndrome and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Is there more information available on them?
We have information on our website on Sjogren’s and Rheumatoid Arthritis, and videos on specific items on both on our YouTube page. Having the symptoms of both of these conditions is not uncommon. A significant minority of individuals with RA have secondary Sjogren’s syndrome, and of course, Sjogren’s syndrome itself can cause an inflammatory arthritis similar to rheumatoid arthritis. Fortunately, there is also overlap in the treatment options for a number of the symptoms of these conditions. Working with your rheumatologist, significant improvement in symptoms should be achievable.
Glenda from Fort Saskatchewan asks: Where can I make a donation for Sjogren’s syndrome and its complications?
There are many great organizations that are doing excellent research, including locally in Alberta. Currently there is a growing research program examining connective tissue diseases, including Sjogren’s syndrome, at the University of Alberta. In fact, both the University of Calgary and University of Alberta are well known for the overall quality of research that is produced when it comes to rheumatic conditions.
To consider a donation, you can visit our donation page here or contact the University of Alberta’s Division of Rheumatology division director and administrator, using this link, to make arrangements. Supporting arthritis and rheumatology research will make a significant difference for tens of thousands who are fighting these conditions every day!
Tara from Edmonton asks: I tested positive for Sjogren’s syndrome and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Can you please tell me something about them?
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease with its most common symptom being dry eyes and dry mouth. Read here for more on rheumatoid arthritis, and check out this previous answer for more information. However, you should know there is no definitive test for rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren’s syndrome. There are tests that are associated with these conditions, but they are not definitive. To make a diagnosis of most rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren’s syndrome, an expert in these conditions needs to take a good history and complete a physical examination; then, it is appropriate to look at any investigations and determine how they best fit all together. There are many patients we see who test “positive” for these blood tests, but don’t have – and may never have – a rheumatic disease.
Lynne from Canada asks: Where can I find more information on Sjogren’s syndrome and how is it related to what a rheumatologist does? This information should be included on this site somewhere…just a suggestion.
You’re absolutely right. We continue to work on improving our content. In the meantime, Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune inflammatory condition which most commonly causes a dry mouth and dry eyes, but some people with Sjogren’s syndrome will experience a variety of other symptoms too. Arthritis, fatigue, generalized pain, change in strength or sensation, as well as effects on the heart, lungs, and kidney are a few of the other manifestations of Sjogren’s syndrome. Sjogren’s syndrome is one of the many conditions that a rheumatologists has expertise in and helps these patients manage their symptoms. Visit our Links page for more information, or the Sjogren’s Syndrome Foundation website at www.sjogrens.org.