From dry eyes to debilitating fatigue to brain fog that makes it hard to think straight, your symptoms may all start with the same problem: a chronic autoimmune disease that may lead to inflammation.
A closer look at what drives Sjögren’s disease
The immune system
Sjögren's disease happens when the immune system becomes overactive and stops acting like it should. It's thought to start when a virus or infection activates the immune system.
B-cell activating factor (BAFF)
The immune system sends out a distress signal called B-cell activating factor (BAFF). Normally, BAFF activates and supports the survival of B cells, a type of white blood cell that typically fights off foreign bodies or infections.
Overactive
B cells
When you have Sjögren’s disease, BAFF is higher than normal and can lead to overactive B cells.
Too much inflammation
Overactive B cells can mistakenly attack the body, triggering inflammation. This may first affect glands that make tears and saliva, but later may lead to increased disease activity and symptoms all over your body.
Sjögren’s disease can get worse over time if untreated
Your symptoms are believed to be caused by your immune system attacking your body’s moisture glands. Sjögren's disease can lead to more obvious dryness in your eyes and mouth, but the underlying disease activity can also lead to symptoms internally, affecting your liver, kidneys, lungs, and other vital organs.
In some cases, people with Sjögren's disease can experience further complications, such as inflammation in the lungs (interstitial lung disease) or kidneys (interstitial nephritis), as well as an increased risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma.
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There are millions of people living with Sjögren’s disease, and no two stories are the same. Sharing your story can help others see the fuller picture.
Learn more about Sjögren's disease and how to manage your symptoms
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