Causes, Risk Factors, And Complications Of Polymyositis

Sjogren's Syndrome

Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that causes two characteristic symptoms: dry mouth and dry eyes. Many individuals with Sjogren's syndrome also have another autoimmune disorder like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Because it's so common for patients with autoimmune disorders to develop more than one disorder, the chances of developing polymyositis if they have Sjogren's syndrome are high. Sjogren's syndrome causes an individual's moisture-secreting glands and mucous membranes to be damaged and cease functioning as well. This means they'll produce less saliva and fewer tears. While the disease can occur at any age, the majority of patients are over forty years old at the first onset. Women are much more susceptible to the disease. While the tears and saliva are the first glands targeted by the immune system, other parts of the body can become damaged, including the nerves, skin, lungs, liver, kidneys, thyroid, and joints. Some patients may experience swelling in their joints, skin rashes, a swelling in their salivary glands, or vaginal dryness.

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