Sjogren's Syndrome: Indications It Could Be More Serious

Swollen Salivary Glands

As we know with Sjogren's syndrome, the immune system attacks the body's tissues, and it often occurs alongside other autoimmune diseases. When swollen salivary glands are a symptom of Sjogren's syndrome, they most commonly include the glands in front of the ears and behind the jaw. Though the condition is caused by an underlying autoimmune response, swollen glands are often a sign of an infection. Patients who experience swollen glands alone may have a virus or bacteria inside the affected gland. In Sjogren's syndrome, the reduced amount of saliva allows bacteria to grow in the gland. Other common causes of swelling are severe dehydration, a blockage in the gland, or poor oral hygiene.

Learn more about warning signs of Sjogren's syndrome now.