Best Sjögrens Syndrome Doctors in Bangalore

Types/Stages of Sjögren's Syndrome

Söjgren's syndrome can manifest itself in two forms:

1. Primary Sjögren's Syndrome: This happens independently, without any other associated autoimmune conditions.

2. Secondary Sjören's Syndrome: This form occurs in conjunction with another autoimmune disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.

Symptoms of Sjögren's Syndrome

The primary symptoms observed by the doctors specialised in the treatment of Sjögren's syndrome include:

1. Blood Tests: Detect specific autoantibodies like SSA/Ro and SSB/La, and measure inflammation markers such as ESR and CRP.

2. Schirmer's Test: Measures tear production using a small strip of filter paper placed under the lower eyelid.

3. Salivary Gland Imaging (Sialography): Visualises the salivary ducts and glands using a contrast dye to check for blockages or abnormalities.

4. Minor Salivary Gland Biopsy: Examines a small tissue sample from the salivary glands for characteristic inflammation patterns.

5. Ocular Surface Staining: Uses special dyes to highlight and assess damage to the eye's surface caused by dryness.

Tests to Diagnose Sjögren's Syndrome

To arrive at a diagnosis, several tests may be conducted by a doctor for Sjören's syndrome:

• Blood Tests: Detect specific autoantibodies like SSA/Ro and SSB/La, and measure inflammation markers such as ESR and CRP.

• Schirmer's Test: Measures tear production using a small strip of filter paper placed under the lower eyelid.

• Salivary Gland Imaging (Sialography): Visualises the salivary ducts and glands using a contrast dye to check for blockages or abnormalities.

• Minor Salivary Gland Biopsy: Examines a small tissue sample from the salivary glands for characteristic inflammation patterns.

• Ocular Surface Staining: Uses special dyes to highlight and assess damage to the eye's surface caused by dryness.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Sjögren's Syndrome at Apollo Hospitals Bangalore

At Apollo Hospitals Bangalore, doctors for Sjögren's syndrome treatment offer a comprehensive range of cure options. These are as follows:

1. Prescription Eye Drops: Medications like cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra) decrease eye inflammation and increase tear production.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Other arthritis medications or NSAIDs help manage arthritis symptoms associated with the disorder.

3. Salivary Stimulants: Medications such as pilocarpine (Salagen) and cevimeline (Evoxac) increase saliva production, alleviating dry mouth symptoms.

4. Punctal Occlusion: A minor surgical procedure by rheumatologists for Sjögren's syndrome might be necessary to seal the tear ducts that drain tears from the eyes.