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Symptoms

By Mayo Clinic staff

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Illustration showing location of salivary glands 
Salivary glands

The two main symptoms of Sjogren's syndrome are:

  • Dry eyes. Your eyes may burn, itch or feel gritty — as if there's sand in them.
  • Dry mouth. Your mouth may feel like it's full of cotton, making it difficult to swallow or speak.

Some people with Sjogren's syndrome also experience one or more of the following:

Joint pain, swelling and stiffness

  • Swollen salivary glands — particularly the set located behind your jaw and in front of your ears
  • Skin rashes or dry skin
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Persistent dry cough
  • Prolonged fatigue
References
  1. Questions and answers about Sjogren's syndrome. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Sjogrens_Syndrome/sjogrens_syndrome_qa.pdf. Accessed May 15, 2009.
  2. Kruszka P, et al. Diagnosis and management of Sjogren syndrome. American Family Physician. 2009;79:465.
  3. Naguwa S, et al. Sjogren's syndrome. In: Goldman L, et al. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/137554062-3/841563606/1492/1035.html#4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-2805-5..50294-9_13050. Accessed May 15, 2009.
  4. Sjogren's syndrome. American College of Rheumatology. http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheets/diseases_and_conditions/sjogrens.asp. Accessed May 15, 2009.
  5. Fox R, et al. Treatment of Sjogren's syndrome. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed May 20, 2009.
  6. Chang-Miller A (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 1, 2009.

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Aug. 6, 2009

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