1. The client/caregiver can describe Sjogren’s syndrome.
   1. The white blood cells incorrectly produce antibodies, which attack, inflame, and damage
      moisture-producing glands.
   2. Damage is most common to the tear and saliva glands.
   3. Risk factors
      • Greater for women
      • Greater over the age of 40 years
      • Higher for people who have rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, polymyositis, Raynaud’s, and
        scleroderma or those who have a family history of rheumatic disease
   4. The more serious form is called primary Sjogren’s. Damage is done to the moisture-producing tissue
      in the skin, muscles, joints, thyroid, blood vessels, liver, or pancreas.
2. The client/caregiver can list symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome.
   1. Three or more months of history of a dry or gritty eye sensation, blurred vision, or bright-light
      sensitivity.
   2. Chronic complaints of dry or “cotton” mouth often combined with thickened saliva that becomes
      sticky.
   3. Decreased saliva will
      • Increase the risk of cavities
      • Cause lips to crack and bleed
      • Cause mouth sores and fungal infections
      • Make taste and smell abilities fade
   4. Damaged moisture production in other areas can cause
      • Dry and itchy skin with rashes
      • Joint pain
      • Gastrointestinal problems
      • Heartburn
      • Weight loss
      • Thyroid problems
      • Lung and respiratory problems
3. The client/caregiver can describe treatment for Sjogren’s syndrome.
   1. The goal is to moisturize and protect any problem areas.
   2. Treatment for the mouth
      • Regular dental care
      • Sugar-free hard candy or gum
      • Good oral care using fluoride gel, floss, and rinses
      • Over-the-counter artificial saliva products
      • No smoking
      • Use of humidifiers in the home
   3. Treatment for the eyes
      • Avoid wind, sand, and smoke.
      • Goggles can be used as protection.
      • Artificial tears can be helpful.
   4. Treatment for skin
      • Moisturizing soaps
      • Oil-based ointments
      • Protection against sunlight
      • Vaginal lubricants
   5. Use medication only as directed by the physician.
   6. Because various medical specialists and health providers are involved, coordinate and inform all
      care providers to maximize treatment.

Resources

Sjogren’s Syndrome Foundation
www.sjogrens.org

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
www.niams.nih.gov

References

Ackley, B. J., & Ladwig, G. B. (2006). Nursing diagnosis handbook: A guide to planning care. Philadelphia: Mosby Inc.
Cohen, B. J., & Wood, D. L. (2000). Memmler’s the Human Body in Health and Disease (9th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Timby, B. K., & Smith, N. C. (2003). Introductory medical-surgical nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Credits

Client Teaching Guides for Home Health Care, 2nd ed.
© 2008 Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc.
www.jbpub.com