a little about Sjogren's

There are so many symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases besides pain, today I thought I'd focus on some of those.


Those of us with Sjogren's make no saliva. Try to find mints or gum with Xylitol. The brand Spry even makes a tooth paste gum and mints. It's important to sip a lot of water. I can't emphasize how important proper dental care. It is absolutely imperative. Dry mouths cause tooth decay and a lot of problems that may make us lose our teeth.


Dry eyes make it hard to see because of blurriness and sensitivity to light. Use Sterile eye drops in the vials and use strong sunglasses. I prefer Systane. It's easy to use vials make your eyes feel great. Only vials of eye drops are truly steril. See your Eye professionals regularly.


I also suggest seeing your eye doctor to either check your current prescription (mine changed dramatically) and if needed, get something stronger. I'm going to get Transitions Lenses on my new pair so that I won't have so much trouble with light. 


Thick body creams are necessary because our skin will dry up. 
Lotions are not enough. Keep showers to a tepid level. Hot water dries skin out. Eucerin, Nivea, and Blue-Emu work exceptionally well. Blue-Emu helps with muscle pain as well.


Look out for rashes. They may indicate other problems. Whether the rash is tiny, on your face, or, what I have, on your nails, get it checked out.


Take fatigue and pain seriously. You need to take care of yourself in order to be there for other. I'm not as good at that as I should be. As a result I have more pain.


Autoimmune diseases cause pain in our joints. Be aware of where and what type of pain you have so that you can tell your rheumatologist. 


This is a short list for a start. It's just the beginning. I'll delve deeper. But watch those rashes!


peace & love,
sunee