Sjögren’s Syndrome is certainly not a condition that most people have heard about, yet it affects the lives of many of our patients here at BFS. The recent announcement by tennis star Venus Williams that she has been diagnosed with Sjögren’s Syndrome may help to increase awareness of this disorder. Williams sought treatment for many of her symptoms, which included joint pain, hand swelling, dry eyes and mouth, numbness, fatigue, but received numerous misdiagnoses before now. Estimates indicate that nearly four million Americans have Sjögren’s, yet only one-fourth of them have been accurately diagnosed. Williams’ experience and these statistics highlight the great need for increased awareness and improved diagnosis of this life-changing condition.
Sjögren’s Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease that is characterized by dry eyes and dry mouth. This condition is systemic and can cause dysfunction in other organs as well, such as the kidneys, gastrointestinal system, blood vessels, lungs, liver, pancreas, and the central nervous system. Extreme fatigue and joint pain may also be present. Although there is no cure for Sjögren’s, symptoms can be managed through medical treatments and lifestyle adjustments to improve quality of life and prevent complications.
Currently, the Sjögren’s Syndrome Foundation is reaching out to local communities across the U.S. to promote awareness of this disease. You can help make a difference in your own community by becoming an Awareness Ambassador. If you are interested in learning more about this exciting program, please contact Kathy Ivory at the Sjögren’s Syndrome Foundation (by phone at 800-475-6473, extension 213, or by email at kivory@sjogrens.org). Help spread the word and make Sjögren’s Syndrome a household name.