PREVENTION
Sadly, there's
no known way to prevent the onset of Sjogren's syndrome. However, the symptoms
are often treatable, and you can develop strategies for keeping some symptoms at
bay.
Ironically, the best "prevention" is early diagnosis and prevention of
complications. Early diagnosis and intervention can impede the course of
Sjogren's syndrome. All too often, the condition goes undiagnosed and symptoms
continue to worsen. Since Sjogren's syndrome can affect many parts of the body,
regular checkups can help detect and prevent future problems. You and your
health care professional should meet frequently to discuss your treatment
strategy in order to keep the condition from worsening.
A healthy diet is part of taking care of yourself under any circumstances, and
it's doubly important if you have Sjogren's. You should probably avoid alcoholic
and caffeinated beverages as they may be dehydrating, and can contribute to
increased dryness. Spicy and acidic food can also irritate your mouth, and
sugary food can promote further tooth decay.
Of course, get plenty of rest, and avoid tobacco and (when possible) stress.
Mild exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help keep joints and muscles
flexible. Exercise may also protect against further joint damage. Warm
compresses or heating pads can help ease joint or gland pain.
Keeping your mouth moist is important. Artificial moisture
(see the Treatment section at this Web site) can help.
Methylcellulose swabs or spray might help alleviate mouth dryness.
Sipping fluids throughout the day may help, too, as well as
sugar-free gum or candies, which stimulate saliva production. Use
artificial tears or eye drops to help relieve the discomfort of
dry eyes. Medications such as Salagen and Evoxac may improve
saliva production, and Restasis eye drops may improve tear
production.
Practicing good oral hygiene is essential. Frequent dental
checkups, fluoride and mouth rinses, regular brushing with
antibacterial toothpastes (e.g., Biotene) and flossing are more
important for Sjogren's patients, since you are at a higher risk
for tooth decay.
Here are other coping strategies that can help moderate your
symptoms.
* Don't smoke; avoid tobacco smoke and other air irritants.
* Use self-adhesive stamps and envelopes.
* Don't direct hair dryers toward your eyes.
* Wear glasses on windy days and goggles when swimming.
* Coat your lips with petroleum-based lubricants to prevent
drying. (Many lipsticks can provide this protection).
* Keep your home humidity between 30 and 50 percent. You may want
to use a humidifier year-round. Some experts advise using a
cool-mist, ultrasonic humidifier; be sure to clean it daily.
* Avoid rubbing your eyes.
* If you have nasal and airway dryness, consider using a soft
cervical collar while you sleep to help prevent your mouth from
opening, thus preventing the dryness that mouth breathing causes.
* Avoid abrasive detergents, soaps, and in some cases, dryer
sheets.
* Consider installing a water conditioner if you live in a
hard-water area.
* Consider soft contact lenses rather than the traditional hard
ones. Many patients with Sjogren's are unable to wear contact
lenses at all.
* Avoid prolonged hot showers or baths.
* Talk to your health care professional about discontinuing your
use of decongestants and antihistamines because they dry your
mouth and nasal areas.
* Use sunscreen.
* Apply lotions/lubricants to still-damp skin right after you
finish your bath or shower.
* For particularly dry patches of skin, talk to your health care
professional about using emollients containing salicylic acid,
lactate or urea.
* Frequent small sips of water--or sucking on ice chips--can help
keep your lips and gastrointestinal tract hydrated.
* Avoid drafts from air conditioners, heaters and radiators, when
possible.
* If you have vaginal dryness, use lubricants made specifically
for that purpose.
Finally, experts stress the importance of mental and emotional
health. Joining a self-help or support group can help you cope
emotionally as well as help you learn about new strategies for
managing your disease.
