What are the first signs of Sjogren’s Syndrome?

Introduction: Why Sjogren’s Syndrome Needs a New Approach

Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects moisture-producing glands, leading to symptoms like dry eyes and mouth, but its impact extends beyond these areas. At Patients Medical in New York City, we don’t just treat the symptoms. Our integrative approach combines conventional, holistic, and functional medicine to uncover the root causes of your Sjogren’s Syndrome—and to help you manage or reverse it naturally, when possible. We treat the whole person—not just the dryness.

What is Sjogren’s Syndrome?

Sjogren’s Syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks moisture-producing glands. This leads to dryness in the eyes, mouth, and other parts of the body. However, it can also affect the joints, kidneys, liver, lungs, and nervous system. The syndrome can be classified into two types:

  • Primary Sjogren’s Syndrome: Occurs on its own, without other underlying autoimmune diseases.
  • Secondary Sjogren’s Syndrome: Develops alongside other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

Common Symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome

Many people with Sjogren’s Syndrome experience symptoms that can often be overlooked. Here are some common red flags:

If you experience these symptoms, seeking medical evaluation and testing is essential.

Root Causes: Why Did You Develop Sjogren’s Syndrome?

Functional medicine focuses on identifying the underlying causes of chronic conditions. For Sjogren’s Syndrome, these are common root causes:

  • Genetic predisposition: A family history of autoimmune diseases can increase your risk.
  • Immune system dysfunction: The immune system attacking healthy tissues can trigger symptoms.
  • Chronic inflammation: Inflammation in the body can exacerbate autoimmune reactions.
  • Environmental triggers: Exposure to toxins or viral infections can initiate or worsen symptoms.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Especially during menopause, hormonal changes can impact the severity of symptoms.
  • Gut health: An unhealthy gut can play a role in autoimmune responses.

 

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we use advanced diagnostic testing to understand what’s driving your condition:

Blood tests (for antibodies like ANA, anti-SSA, and anti-SSB)

Salivary gland function tests (for dry mouth)

Eye tests (Schirmer test for dry eyes)

Ultrasound of salivary glands

Biopsy of minor salivary glands

Inflammatory markers (such as CRP, ESR)

Hormone panels (to check for imbalances)

Integrative Treatments for Sjogren’s Syndrome

We offer a comprehensive treatment plan to manage Sjogren’s Syndrome, focusing on addressing the root causes:

Nutritional Therapy

We create personalized nutrition plans to support immune health and reduce inflammation, including:

  • Anti-inflammatory diets (such as Mediterranean or autoimmune protocols)
  • Hydration protocols (to support moisture levels in the body)
  • Nutrient-dense meal planning
  • Elimination diets to detect food sensitivities

IV Vitamin Therapy

Custom IVs with nutrients like B vitamins, Vitamin C, glutathione, and magnesium can help with detoxification and immune system support.

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

We recommend evidence-based supplements, including:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Turmeric (curcumin)
  • Probiotics
  • N-acetyl cysteine (NAC)
  • Vitamin D (for immune support)

Stress Reduction

Stress management is crucial, so we provide:

  • Acupuncture
  • Meditation and mindfulness
  • Adaptogenic herbs (to balance cortisol and support adrenal health)

Hormone Balancing

We offer support for hormonal imbalances through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, especially for women experiencing changes due to menopause.

Joint and Pain Management

Medically supervised treatment for joint pain, including:

  • Physical therapy
  • Corticosteroid injections (if necessary)
  • Acupuncture

Real Case Study: Maria’s Journey to Wellness

Maria, age 52, came to us with severe dryness in her eyes and mouth, constant fatigue, and joint pain. She was taking prescription medication but still felt unwell. After testing, we identified elevated levels of inflammation and hormonal imbalances.

We designed a comprehensive, 3-month plan that included:

  • Nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet
  • Hydration protocols
  • IV nutrient therapy
  • Herbal supplementation
  • Stress management practices

Three months later, Maria felt significant improvement in her energy, moisture levels, and pain reduction. She was able to reduce her medication under her doctor’s guidance and manage her symptoms more effectively.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, in many cases. Addressing the root cause through nutrition, hormone support, and stress reduction can restore healthy function.

Some patients use them short-term, but many can reduce or eliminate reliance with our natural approach.

Some patients use them short-term, but many can reduce or eliminate reliance with our natural approach.

Some patients use them short-term, but many can reduce or eliminate reliance with our natural approach.

Some patients use them short-term, but many can reduce or eliminate reliance with our natural approach.

Yes, when labs confirm need. We use bioidentical, physician-supervised treatments.

We are out-of-network but provide superbills. Lab work may be partially covered.

We are out-of-network but provide superbills. Lab work may be partially covered.

We are out-of-network but provide superbills. Lab work may be partially covered.

We are out-of-network but provide superbills. Lab work may be partially covered.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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