I don't have it, but if you want, you can click onto "RA connect" at the top of this page and ask others, who might be suffering from it.

Hi Mrs. Palmas
I haven't gotten an official diagnosis of Sjogrens' but I have all the symptoms and more that you describe above. I haven't had the salivary gland test because this would be secondary Sjogrens and we are focusing on the RA and treatments. Also, from what I've read (and anyone please correct me if this is not so) Sjogrens' has no cure and all we can do is treat the symptoms... so, I use saline drops in my nose and vaseline. I have a RX of Restasis for good tears in my eyes. I constantly have a water bottle with me to sip due to dry mouth and sugar free candies and lotions and creams forr all other issues. You know, I know what you mean.
I hope you can find some relief from ALL your symptoms.
Best to you,
Babs

Hi there,

I have Sjogren's. I also have R.A. and Felty's syndrome as well. I "lucked " out and got the tri-factor.

As far as Sjogren's goes...my eyes have flare-ups periodically. No rhyme or reson that I can chart. My eyes will go into "attack" and I have extreme pain...feels like burning dirt/grit was poured in them. It causes them to become red, watery, and painful pressure builds up above eye socket (similiar to sinus). The attacks can last just a few hours up to a day and a half for me. My eyes are now..after repeated (10 plus years) attacks, very light sensitive. I have prescription medicated eye drops that I use when in attacks, and I try to use a "natural tears" type of eye drops daily to help prevent dryness. *NOTE* Stay away from regular red-out eye drops..ie: Visine type.

As far as dry mouth w/ Sjogren's...have not really noticed any changes (probably due to the fact that I smoke...and I am always thirsty anyway....i know i need to quit). BUT...what I have noticed, is..after a period of time..it has effected the enamel of my teeth and has made them more prone to cavities (per dentist and Rheum.)

My eye damage from Sjogren's is not reversible, and I get checked by an eye specialist yearly. The eye doctors always request to see you when your eye is in attack, which is a ridiculous request in my opinion...because...1) Can't drive when in attack 2) In too much pain already, so why would I go there then, and let them poke and prod me into more pain?

Hope this helps ~