Sjögren’s attacks the moisture-producing glands that make saliva and tears, so people often experience dry mouth and dry eyes. Like Williams, people with Sjögren’s might also feel extreme fatigue and joint pain. The problem with diagnosing Sjögren’s is that the symptoms don’t often occur at the same time. In other words, someone with Sjögren’s might see an eye doctor for dry eye but later see a different doctor for fatigue or joint pain. Sjögren’s also doesn’t progress in the same way for all people.
Because there isn’t a test for Sjögren’s syndrome, it might take up to three years for a diagnosis, according to the Sjögren’s Foundation. A Sjögren’s diagnosis typically involves a rheumatologist who pulls together the list of symptoms.
There’s no cure for Sjögren’s at the moment, but people with Sjögren’s have options to treat their symptoms. The malaria drug hydroxychloroquine can sometimes treat Sjögren’s, and some drugs can be prescribed to help in producing saliva. Sprays and lozenges can also help with dry mouth. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help with joint pain. But Williams has found a natural way to manage her condition.
