Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide, especially middle-aged women. One of the most common questions surrounding this disease is whether it falls under the category of autoimmune disorders. The answer is yes—Sjögren’s syndrome is indeed an autoimmune disease. Understanding what this means and how it impacts the body can help patients and caregivers manage the condition more effectively.

What Is an Autoimmune Disease?

The immune system is designed to protect the body by attacking harmful invaders like bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. In autoimmune diseases, however, the immune system mistakenly targets the body’s own healthy tissues. This results in inflammation and tissue damage, which can affect various organs and systems.

Common autoimmune diseases include:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus)

  • Type 1 diabetes

  • Multiple sclerosis

  • Psoriasis

Sjögren’s syndrome is classified within this group because it involves an abnormal immune response that primarily targets the glands responsible for producing moisture.

What Happens in Sjögren’s Syndrome?

In people with Sjögren’s syndrome, the immune system attacks the exocrine glands—especially the salivary and tear glands. This leads to a significant reduction in the production of saliva and tears, resulting in dry mouth (xerostomia) and dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca).

Over time, the inflammation can extend beyond the glands and affect other parts of the body, including the:

  • Joints

  • Skin

  • Lungs

  • Kidneys

  • Digestive system

  • Nerves

Because of this widespread impact, Sjögren’s syndrome can vary in severity and symptom presentation from person to person.

Primary vs. Secondary Sjögren’s Syndrome

There are two forms of the condition:

  • Primary Sjögren’s syndrome occurs by itself without the presence of another autoimmune disease.

  • Secondary Sjögren’s syndrome occurs in people who already have another autoimmune condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

In both cases, the immune system dysfunction is central to the disease process.

Symptoms of Sjögren’s Syndrome

While dry eyes and dry mouth are the hallmark symptoms, many people experience a variety of other issues, including:

  • Fatigue

  • Joint pain or swelling

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Hoarseness

  • Swollen salivary glands (especially below the jaw and in front of the ears)

  • Skin rashes or dry skin

  • Vaginal dryness

  • Persistent cough or lung issues

  • Numbness or tingling in the extremities

These symptoms arise due to the immune system’s attack on different tissues, which is characteristic of autoimmune disease behavior.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Sjögren’s syndrome can be complex because its symptoms overlap with those of other conditions. A combination of clinical evaluation and specialized testing is usually required. Diagnostic tools may include:

  • Blood tests: To check for specific antibodies like anti-SSA (Ro) and anti-SSB (La), which are commonly found in people with Sjögren’s.

  • Schirmer’s test: To measure tear production.

  • Salivary gland function tests: To assess how well the glands are working.

  • Lip biopsy: A minor surgical procedure to examine gland tissue for signs of immune cell infiltration.

A diagnosis is typically made based on a combination of symptoms, lab results, and medical history.

Why Sjögren’s Is Considered Autoimmune

Sjögren’s syndrome meets the key criteria of an autoimmune disease:

  1. Immune System Activation Against Self: The body produces autoantibodies that mistakenly attack healthy cells.

  2. Chronic Inflammation: Persistent immune activity leads to long-term inflammation in targeted tissues.

  3. Association with Other Autoimmune Conditions: Many people with Sjögren’s also have or develop other autoimmune diseases.

Researchers believe that genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors contribute to the development of Sjögren’s. For example, a viral infection may trigger the immune system in someone with a genetic predisposition, leading to autoimmunity.

How Is Sjögren’s Syndrome Managed?

As with most autoimmune diseases, there is no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome, but symptoms can be managed effectively. Treatment plans are usually personalized based on the severity and the organs involved. Options include:

  • Artificial tears and saliva substitutes: To relieve dryness.

  • Medications: Such as pilocarpine or cevimeline to stimulate gland activity.

  • Immunosuppressants: Like hydroxychloroquine or methotrexate for systemic symptoms.

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs: To reduce joint or muscle pain.

  • Lifestyle adjustments: Staying hydrated, using humidifiers, and avoiding irritants like tobacco or alcohol.

Managing the disease also involves regular follow-up with healthcare providers to monitor for complications like dental decay, eye infections, or involvement of internal organs.

Long-Term Outlook

While Sjögren’s syndrome is chronic, many people live normal, active lives with proper management. Fatigue and dryness may persist, but flare-ups can often be controlled with medication and self-care. For some, complications such as lung disease, kidney issues, or lymphoma can occur, making regular medical oversight essential.

Education, support groups, and access to specialists such as rheumatologists or ophthalmologists can empower individuals to take control of their health.

Conclusion

Sjögren’s syndrome is undeniably an autoimmune disease. It involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the body’s moisture-producing glands and, in many cases, other organs. Recognizing its autoimmune nature helps in understanding its symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and treatment strategies. With a comprehensive approach to care, people with Sjögren’s syndrome can manage their condition effectively and maintain a good quality of life.