Sjorgren's syndrome is what is called an autoimmune system disorder which means that it is a disease that makes your body cells attack their own mucous membrane tissues, and the glands that produce tears and saliva. Although the disease is not well publicized, and therefore little known about, it actually affects a staggering 4 million US citizens per year. At this point in time there is no known cure for Sjorgren's syndrome.
Treatments today are focused on improving the quality of life since a cure does not exist. Both conventional and alternative treatments seek to strengthen the immune system and provide comfort to those afflicted. Most focus on rehydrating mucous membranes affected.
Women with Sjorgren's syndrome can experience vaginal dryness in addition to the dry mouth, eyes, and nasal passages associated with the disease in both genders. Eyes can also be sensitive to light. As a result of this dryness, people with Sjorgren's syndrome may have difficulty swallowing, speaking clearly, tasting food, or keeping their teeth healthy and free from cavities.
In addition, symptoms can include skin rashes, joint pain, fatigue, and dry, itchy skin overall. The treatments currently available do help relieve dryness of the eyes and mouth; however, they are only effective for a limited period of time. When the medication wears off, so do the benefits, so these medications must be used frequently or continuously to provide relief.
Additional alternative treatments are gaining in popularity. Such alternatives include homeopathy, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, and acupuncture. Some research suggests Willow Bark may relief mouth dryness-which helps with speaking, tasting, and reducing the formation of cavities-and Omega 3 fatty oil supplements may help alleviate dry eyes.
Lifestyle changes and adapting certain conditions in your home environment can also bring some relief. For example you can use a humidifier to moisten the atmosphere, ensure that you have plenty of fluids on hand to moisten your mouth, and various creams and lotions to rehydrate the skin. The female vagina can also be affected with dryness because of Sjorgren's syndrome, so having some vaginal creams on hand too will bring relief as and when necessary.
Minimizing any breezes or drafts, plus switching off any fans can help as rapid air movement contributes to the drying of the skin and in particular, the eyes and the nasal passages. Warm, moist compresses can help to alleviate dry eyes, and wearing a mask when asleep also seems to benefit some people. If you are doing any detailed and demanding small figure work that is tiring on the eyes, you should take frequent rests and apply OTC (over the counter) eye drops or creams to help to keep them moist.
Sjorgren's syndrome can have potentially debilitating and lasting effects if not properly treated. Corneal damage and tooth decay are just two of the potential problems you want to avoid. So work with your physician and also a dentist/dental surgeon or opthalmologist to get the care you need to stay as healthy as you can. Medications and treatment are available, and you want to use them if they provide you with relief from symptoms. You also want to learn about new and alternative treatments as they become available so you can continue to enjoy your life.
Treatments today are focused on improving the quality of life since a cure does not exist. Both conventional and alternative treatments seek to strengthen the immune system and provide comfort to those afflicted. Most focus on rehydrating mucous membranes affected.
Women with Sjorgren's syndrome can experience vaginal dryness in addition to the dry mouth, eyes, and nasal passages associated with the disease in both genders. Eyes can also be sensitive to light. As a result of this dryness, people with Sjorgren's syndrome may have difficulty swallowing, speaking clearly, tasting food, or keeping their teeth healthy and free from cavities.
In addition, symptoms can include skin rashes, joint pain, fatigue, and dry, itchy skin overall. The treatments currently available do help relieve dryness of the eyes and mouth; however, they are only effective for a limited period of time. When the medication wears off, so do the benefits, so these medications must be used frequently or continuously to provide relief.
Additional alternative treatments are gaining in popularity. Such alternatives include homeopathy, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, and acupuncture. Some research suggests Willow Bark may relief mouth dryness-which helps with speaking, tasting, and reducing the formation of cavities-and Omega 3 fatty oil supplements may help alleviate dry eyes.
Lifestyle changes and adapting certain conditions in your home environment can also bring some relief. For example you can use a humidifier to moisten the atmosphere, ensure that you have plenty of fluids on hand to moisten your mouth, and various creams and lotions to rehydrate the skin. The female vagina can also be affected with dryness because of Sjorgren's syndrome, so having some vaginal creams on hand too will bring relief as and when necessary.
Minimizing any breezes or drafts, plus switching off any fans can help as rapid air movement contributes to the drying of the skin and in particular, the eyes and the nasal passages. Warm, moist compresses can help to alleviate dry eyes, and wearing a mask when asleep also seems to benefit some people. If you are doing any detailed and demanding small figure work that is tiring on the eyes, you should take frequent rests and apply OTC (over the counter) eye drops or creams to help to keep them moist.
Sjorgren's syndrome can have potentially debilitating and lasting effects if not properly treated. Corneal damage and tooth decay are just two of the potential problems you want to avoid. So work with your physician and also a dentist/dental surgeon or opthalmologist to get the care you need to stay as healthy as you can. Medications and treatment are available, and you want to use them if they provide you with relief from symptoms. You also want to learn about new and alternative treatments as they become available so you can continue to enjoy your life.
About the Author:
The author Bob Stevens is a natural practitioner, and has been in the field of health for over 15 years. His interest is in educating and helping individuals return to a better state of health. Feel free to read more about the miracle mineral supplement, and learn more about mms by following this link.
No comments:
Post a Comment