Chitika

Chitika

tisdag 22 september 2009

Sjorgren's Syndrome: Treatment Options

By Bob Stevens

While most people are not familiar with Sjorgen's syndrome, this is a serious disease affecting more than 4 million people each year in the United States alone. The disease is an autoimmune disorder whereby the individual's body attacks the mucous membranes of the body-such as the eyes, mouth, and nasal passages. There is no cure at this time.

Treatments today are focused on improving the quality of life since a cure does not exist. Both conventional and alternative treatments seek to strengthen the immune system and provide comfort to those afflicted. Most focus on rehydrating mucous membranes affected.

Sjorgren's syndrome presents itself as dry mouth, dry eyes, and-for women-dryness in the vaginal area, as well. Swallowing can be difficult due to dry mouth and speech may also be impaired. Taste is desensitized and diminished and sufferers have a tendency to develop more cavities. Dry eyes result in itching, irritation, burning, and sensitivity to light.

Dry skin, rashes, fatigue, and joint pain are also common. There are some medications that can assist with the dryness of the mouth and eyes; however, these medications are only effective for the duration they are being used. In other words, they must be reapplied frequently to maintain the moisturizing effect.

The alternative treatments that are popular include: acupuncture, herbal remedies, nutritional supplements, and homeopathy. The small amount of research that has been conducted into alternative remedies for Sjorgren's syndrome suggests that Willow Bark can be used effectively to counter the dryness of mouth which then helps to improve speech, and minimize cavity formation. Damage to the taste buds can be more lasting. The same research has also suggested that supplements containing the fatty oil Omega 3 are helpful in treating dry eyes.

Lifestyle changes and adapting certain conditions in your home environment can also bring some relief. For example you can use a humidifier to moisten the atmosphere, ensure that you have plenty of fluids on hand to moisten your mouth, and various creams and lotions to rehydrate the skin. The female vagina can also be affected with dryness because of Sjorgren's syndrome, so having some vaginal creams on hand too will bring relief as and when necessary.

In addition, it is also helpful to eliminate or minimize drafts in your home or office. Fans, drafts, and anything causing rapid air movement exacerbate the drying effects in people with Sjorgren's syndrome. The eyes, mouth, and nasal passages are most susceptible. Some people benefit from wearing a mask when they sleep. Others find warm, wet compresses helpful for dry eyes. Over-the-counter eye creams and drops can also help moisten the eyes. If you will be focusing on paperwork for long periods of time, take frequent breaks and apply eye drops to remoisten eyes as needed.

Make no mistake about it, Sjorgren's syndrome is a very serious affliction and you are advised to keep in regular touch with your doctor and to discuss any alternative treatments with him/her. Dry eyes can result in damage to the corneas, and what with the increased danger of cavities means that you must consult an ophthalmic practitioner and a dental surgeon at least three times per year. One can clearly live with Sjorgren's and enjoy a good quality of life with the right medications and alternative treatments in place.

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