Sjögren's disease is an autoimmune disorder affecting connective tissues, lacrimal and salivary glands. This disease is very common, primarily affecting women aged 20 to 60. There is also Sjögren's syndrome, which accompanies rheumatoid arthritis, biliary tract disease, etc.
Causes
To date, scientists in Israel have not determined the causes of the disease. It is hypothesized that Sjögren's disease develops as a result of a retroviral infection.
Symptoms of Sjögren's Disease
Glandular symptoms of the disease are characterized by reduced secretion functions of the glands. If the lacrimal glands are affected, the patient experiences itching and inflammation of the eyelids, a burning sensation in the eyes, and discharge of a white substance. This is followed by light sensitivity, narrowing of the eyes, and deterioration of vision. Damage to the salivary glands is characterized by their enlargement and lack of saliva production, the appearance of angular cheilitis, development of stomatitis, root caries, and enlargement of nearby lymph nodes and parotid glands. Subsequently, dryness in the nasopharynx occurs, along with gastrointestinal disturbances (atrophic gastritis), pancreatic issues, joint pain, inflammatory processes in the respiratory tract, and vascular damage.
Diagnosis of Sjögren's Disease in Israel
Diagnosis of Sjögren's disease in Israel is based on the overall clinical picture of the disease. The most effective laboratory tests include leukocyte count, ESR levels, hypergammaglobulinemia, tests for the presence of antibodies in the body, and the influence of antinuclear elements.
Treatment of Sjögren's Disease in Israel
Treatment of Sjögren's disease in Israel is comprehensive. The main focus of treatment is hormonal therapy and the use of immunosuppressants. Some complicated forms of the disease are treated with a combination of pulse therapy and extracorporeal treatment. Localized healing therapy for erosions, therapeutic measures for the eyes, and restoration of the mucous membranes of the mouth, vagina, and respiratory tract are performed. Treatment of accompanying diseases such as gastritis and pancreatic dysfunction is also conducted. With timely initiation of treatment, complete recovery of the patient occurs. In the absence of known causes of the disease, prevention of Sjögren's disease involves avoiding retroviral infections and undergoing necessary examinations and treatment under medical supervision at the first signs of the disease.