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Lifestyle Modifications and Quality of Life for Scleroderma
Sjogren's Syndrome in Scleroderma
Many people with systemic scleroderma also develop a condition called Sjogren's syndrome. Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that is characterized primarily by dry eyes and dry mouth. Dry eye can be treated most of the time using over the counter products such as artificial tears. If a patient has dry mouth, it is very important to sip water frequently and suck on sugar-free candy to keep the mouth moist because excessive dry mouth can lead to cavities, gum disease and oral fungal infections. A drug called pilocarpine (Salagen) has been approved for treating dry mouth in patients with scleroderma and Sjogren's syndrome. Good dental hygiene is also critical for patients with Sjogren's syndrome.
