Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
Sjogren's syndrome
Sjögren’s syndrome (pronounced ‘showgren’) is where the moisture-producing glands in your body become inflamed
About
Sjögren's syndrome is a condition that mostly affects the moisture-producing glands of your body that make fluids like tears and saliva. It usually starts in middle-aged people around the age of 40 to 60 and is more common in women than men. This is a long-term condition that can affect your daily life if not managed properly.
Need to know
Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome may include:
- dry mouth, eyes and/or skin
- vaginal dryness in women
- bladder irritability
- muscle or joint pain
- fatigue
- swollen salivary glands
- rashes
Your consultant will speak to you about your symptoms and carry out various tests. You may be referred to an ophthalmologist (eye specialist), dentist or oral surgeon or a rheumatologist. They may carry out some, or all, of the following:
- a blood test
- checking the layer of tears on your eyes
- measuring how many tears you produce
- spit test
- removing a piece of lip tissue
There is no cure for Sjögren's syndrome, but various treatments can alleviate the symptoms. These include:
- using lubricating eye drops and ointments for dry eyes
- using a saliva substitute including sprays, lozenges and gels for dry mouth
- using a moisturising cream for dry skin
- hormone replacement therapy for vaginal dryness
- a quinine-derived drug which is useful for joint pains and fatigue
- anti-inflammatory painkillers and regular exercise or physiotherapy for joint pain
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.