Sjogren’s Syndrome

Sjögren’s syndrome is caused by the immune system (the body’s defence against infection), damaging healthy parts of the body. This is known as an autoimmune condition.

The condition usually affects areas of the body that produce fluids, such as tears and saliva. But other parts of the body, such as nerves and joints, can also be affected.

It’s not clear why the immune system stops working properly.

It may be linked to:

• genetics – some people may be born with genes that make them more likely to get an autoimmune condition
• hormones – the female hormone oestrogen may play a part, as the condition is much more common in women than men

Sometimes, people with Sjögren’s syndrome also have other autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. This is known as secondary Sjögren’s syndrome.

Primary Sjögren’s syndrome is where you do not have any other related conditions.