Sjögren’s Syndrome Awareness Day is observed annually on July 23rd to bring visibility to this chronic autoimmune disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.

Sjögren’s Syndrome is one of the most common autoimmune disorders, yet it is often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed due to its wide range of symptoms.

What is Sjögren’s Syndrome?

Sjögren’s Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks and damages the body’s moisture-producing glands, such as the salivary and tear glands.

This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including dry eyes, dry mouth, fatigue, joint pain, and difficulty swallowing.

Who is Affected by Sjögren’s Syndrome?

Sjögren’s Syndrome can affect people of any age, gender, and ethnicity, but it is more commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 40.

It is estimated that as many as 4 million people in the United States alone have Sjögren’s Syndrome, and millions more around the world are affected.

Why is Sjögren’s Syndrome a “Hidden” Illness?

One of the challenges of Sjögren’s Syndrome is that its symptoms may not be immediately visible to others.

Unlike other autoimmune disorders that may cause visible physical changes such as a rash or swelling, Sjögren’s Syndrome can cause internal changes that are not easily observable. As a result, people with Sjögren’s Syndrome may struggle to receive the support and understanding they need from others.

How Can You Raise Awareness for Sjögren’s Syndrome?

If you or someone you know has Sjögren’s Syndrome, there are many ways you can help raise awareness for this invisible illness:.

Share your story: Talking about your experiences with Sjögren’s Syndrome and sharing information on social media can help educate others and reduce stigma.
Participate in awareness events: Many organizations host events and walks to raise funds and awareness for Sjögren’s Syndrome research and advocacy.
Wear blue: Wearing blue on Sjögren’s Syndrome Awareness Day (or any day) can help spark conversations and make others aware of the condition.
Support research: Donating to organizations that fund Sjögren’s Syndrome research can help improve understanding of the condition and lead to better treatments.

Treatment for Sjögren’s Syndrome

There is currently no cure for Sjögren’s Syndrome, but there are treatments available to manage symptoms and help improve quality of life. Some common treatments include:.

Artificial tears and saliva: These can help relieve dryness in the eyes and mouth.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Immunosuppressants: These can help reduce autoimmune activity and protect against damage to the glands.
Corticosteroids: These can also help reduce inflammation.