Sjögren’s
is the UK’s second most common autoimmune rheumatic disease, yet the condition remains under recognised and frequently under treated. It does not command a high profile within the medical profession, and the general public is largely unaware of the problems faced by sufferers.
In reality, Sjögren’s can be a debilitating, distressing and miserable condition.
-
It affects approximately 0.6%
of adults in the UK, with a mean age of 50 years - 90% of patients are women
In Sjögren’s the secretory glands that produce saliva, tears, vaginal, and other secretions develop a form of inflammation. As a result of this, these glands stop working leading to dry eyes, dry mouth, dry skin, dry vagina and dryness of the gastrointestinal tract. These features, as well as being very uncomfortable and unpleasant, mean sufferers may have difficulty swallowing dry foods. Dryness of the large bowel can cause symptoms similar to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
The clinical presentation of Sjögren’s is variable, but typical early symptoms include:
- Dry itchy, irritated eyes
- Joint pain and muscle aches
- Disabling fatigue
- Dry mouth and difficulty swallowing
- Low mood, irritability and impaired concentration
Benefits for joining the Sjögren’s UK:
- Providing information and support to those affected by the condition
- Distribute a variety of literature including an informative quarterly magazine
- Operating a national members' helpline facility
- Hosting regular regional meetings throughout the UK
- Link members through our ‘make a friend’ scheme
- Annual medical meeting with talks from consultants and experts in Sjögren's
- Online members forum
- Full access to our informative website
UK membership
£30.00
Overseas membership
£35.00
