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.
It is said that alternative treatments, when employed in conjunction with traditional medications, can bring the sufferers a better quality of life, but neither is a cure. All treatments, whether conventional or alternative, are focused on treating the condition by rehydrating the affected mucous membrane tissues, and on strengthening the immune system.
The typical symptoms of Sjorgren's syndrome are dry eyes, a dry mouth, and in women, a dry vagina. The dryness of the eyes can cause itchiness, irritation, and a burning sensation, and they become more sensitive to bright light. The dryness to the mouth of course makes swallowing more of a problem, and impairs speech. It also affects the ability to taste food, (with many people reporting a diminished taste sensation), and it can also heighten the likelihood of cavities developing.
Because of the damage to the mucous membrane moisture glands, other symptoms include: dry and itchy skin, dry vagina, skin rashes, pain in the joints, and tiredness. The alternative treatments that have been developed, work well to remedy and bring relief to dry eyes, and dryness of the mouth. However constant use or application is necessary, for as the Sjorgren's syndrome is incurable, the dryness simply returns as the medications were off.
The alternative treatments that are popular include: acupuncture, herbal remedies, nutritional supplements, and homeopathy. The small amount of research that has been conducted into alternative remedies for Sjorgren's syndrome suggests that Willow Bark can be used effectively to counter the dryness of mouth which then helps to improve speech, and minimize cavity formation. Damage to the taste buds can be more lasting. The same research has also suggested that supplements containing the fatty oil Omega 3 are helpful in treating dry eyes.
You can also help control the symptoms of Sjorgren's syndrome by controlling your home and personal environment. Utilize a humidifier to add humidity to the air in your home, drink lots of liquids to hydrate your mouth and body, and use lotion to keep your skin moist and hydrated. For women, keep vaginal creams available to relieve discomfort as needed.
In addition, it is also helpful to eliminate or minimize drafts in your home or office. Fans, drafts, and anything causing rapid air movement exacerbate the drying effects in people with Sjorgren's syndrome. The eyes, mouth, and nasal passages are most susceptible. Some people benefit from wearing a mask when they sleep. Others find warm, wet compresses helpful for dry eyes. Over-the-counter eye creams and drops can also help moisten the eyes. If you will be focusing on paperwork for long periods of time, take frequent breaks and apply eye drops to remoisten eyes as needed.
Sjorgren's syndrome is a serious condition that requires a physician's care and treatment-and also requires the attention of eye and dental specialists. For instance, since dryness of the eyes can lead to corneal damage, an opthalmologist should be involved in your care. And since dry mouth causes increased risk of cavities, you should see your dentist more often than people without Sjorgren's sydrome. Nonetheless, with proper care and treatment, including alternative therapies, sufferers can live healthy, active lives with this disease.
It is said that alternative treatments, when employed in conjunction with traditional medications, can bring the sufferers a better quality of life, but neither is a cure. All treatments, whether conventional or alternative, are focused on treating the condition by rehydrating the affected mucous membrane tissues, and on strengthening the immune system.
The typical symptoms of Sjorgren's syndrome are dry eyes, a dry mouth, and in women, a dry vagina. The dryness of the eyes can cause itchiness, irritation, and a burning sensation, and they become more sensitive to bright light. The dryness to the mouth of course makes swallowing more of a problem, and impairs speech. It also affects the ability to taste food, (with many people reporting a diminished taste sensation), and it can also heighten the likelihood of cavities developing.
Because of the damage to the mucous membrane moisture glands, other symptoms include: dry and itchy skin, dry vagina, skin rashes, pain in the joints, and tiredness. The alternative treatments that have been developed, work well to remedy and bring relief to dry eyes, and dryness of the mouth. However constant use or application is necessary, for as the Sjorgren's syndrome is incurable, the dryness simply returns as the medications were off.
The alternative treatments that are popular include: acupuncture, herbal remedies, nutritional supplements, and homeopathy. The small amount of research that has been conducted into alternative remedies for Sjorgren's syndrome suggests that Willow Bark can be used effectively to counter the dryness of mouth which then helps to improve speech, and minimize cavity formation. Damage to the taste buds can be more lasting. The same research has also suggested that supplements containing the fatty oil Omega 3 are helpful in treating dry eyes.
You can also help control the symptoms of Sjorgren's syndrome by controlling your home and personal environment. Utilize a humidifier to add humidity to the air in your home, drink lots of liquids to hydrate your mouth and body, and use lotion to keep your skin moist and hydrated. For women, keep vaginal creams available to relieve discomfort as needed.
In addition, it is also helpful to eliminate or minimize drafts in your home or office. Fans, drafts, and anything causing rapid air movement exacerbate the drying effects in people with Sjorgren's syndrome. The eyes, mouth, and nasal passages are most susceptible. Some people benefit from wearing a mask when they sleep. Others find warm, wet compresses helpful for dry eyes. Over-the-counter eye creams and drops can also help moisten the eyes. If you will be focusing on paperwork for long periods of time, take frequent breaks and apply eye drops to remoisten eyes as needed.
Sjorgren's syndrome is a serious condition that requires a physician's care and treatment-and also requires the attention of eye and dental specialists. For instance, since dryness of the eyes can lead to corneal damage, an opthalmologist should be involved in your care. And since dry mouth causes increased risk of cavities, you should see your dentist more often than people without Sjorgren's sydrome. Nonetheless, with proper care and treatment, including alternative therapies, sufferers can live healthy, active lives with this disease.
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.
