Sjogren's is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects people in their 40s or more. On the 23rd of July every year, World Sjogren’s Day is celebrated to commemorate Dr. Henrik Sjögren (Swedish ophthalmologist) who first identified the disease in 1933. The observance aims to raise awareness about the symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and management of this often-overlooked condition. It also highlights the importance of early detection and timely medical care to help individuals maintain a better quality of life. Read the blog to learn more.
When is World Sjogren’s Day Observed?
World Sjogren’s Day has been observed on 23rd July since 2010. The day highlights how to identify Sjogren's syndrome and how it can affect a person’s day to day activity. The observance also aims to raise awareness about the symptoms, challenges, and importance of early diagnosis of this chronic autoimmune condition.
Common symptoms include dry eyes, dry mouth, fatigue, and joint pain, which can significantly impact quality of life if left unmanaged. By educating the public and supporting those living with the condition, World Sjogren’s Day encourages timely medical care, improved understanding, and better support for individuals affected by Sjogren’s syndrome worldwide.
What is the Theme for World Sjogren’s Day 2026?
This year’s World Sjogren’s Day theme hasn’t been announced yet, but here’s a look at some of the past themes that have highlighted the challenges, experiences, and resilience of people living with this autoimmune condition.
- 2025 theme: Awareness Through Research
- 2024 theme: Together We Are Stronger
- 2023 theme: Be Seen. Be Heard
- 2022 theme: Patient’s Unmet Needs
- 2021 theme: Patient’s Unmet Needs
- 2020 theme: Patient’s Unmet Needs
These themes have focused on raising awareness, improving understanding, promoting earlier diagnosis, and encouraging better support for patients worldwide. Together, they reflect the ongoing efforts of the Sjogren’s community to bring greater attention to a condition that is often misunderstood or overlooked.
History and Significance of World Sjogren’s Day
The story of Dr. Henrik Sjögren and his groundbreaking discovery in 1929 is well-known. It marks the birth of our understanding of Sjögren syndrome and serves as a powerful reminder of why clinical curiosity matters.
In 1929, Dr. Henrik Sjögren was a young Swedish ophthalmologist working in Stockholm. He met a 49-year-old patient who came to him complaining of severe, painful dry eyes. Had Dr. Sjögren focused strictly on his specialty, he might have simply prescribed soothing eye drops and sent the patient home.
However, during the examination, the patient mentioned two other persistent issues:
By 1933, he published his doctoral thesis based on a detailed study of 19 women who suffered from dry eyes, dry mouth, and joint pain. He proved that the dryness was caused by a massive infiltration of white blood cells (lymphocytes) into the moisture-producing glands, effectively destroying them.
Framing this story as the history of a health awareness day highlights a profound shift in how we approach medicine. Before 1929, the patient was fragmented. A patient with these symptoms would visit three different doctors, receive three different treatments, and find no real answers. Dr. Sjögren introduced the concept of holistic, systemic evaluation. He proved that a symptom in the eye could be directly linked to the immune system attacking the joints.
What is Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Sjogren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues, particularly the glands responsible for producing tears and saliva. The condition can occur on its own or alongside other autoimmune diseases, making early recognition and proper management important.
Types of Sjogren’s Syndrome
Primary Sjogren’s Syndrome
Primary Sjogren’s syndrome develops independently and is not associated with another underlying autoimmune disease. Individuals with primary Sjogren’s syndrome may experience symptoms ranging from mild dryness to more widespread systemic complications affecting multiple organs.
Secondary Sjogren’s Syndrome
Secondary Sjogren’s syndrome occurs in people who already have another autoimmune condition, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis or Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. In these cases, symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome develop alongside the primary autoimmune disorder and may require coordinated management across multiple specialties.
The symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome can vary from person to person and may develop gradually over time. Some of the earliest signs that may indicate Sjogren’s syndrome include:
- Persistent dry eyes or a gritty sensation in the eyes
- Frequent dry mouth or difficulty swallowing dry foods
- Increased need to drink water throughout the day
- Unexplained fatigue
- Mild joint discomfort or stiffness
- Recurrent dental cavities despite good oral hygiene
As the condition progresses, individuals may experience symptoms that interfere with routine activities and overall quality of life, including:
- Chronic dry eyes causing irritation, redness, or blurred vision
- Dry mouth leading to difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing
- Fatigue that affects daily functioning
- Joint pain and muscle aches
- Dry skin and skin irritation
- Swelling of the salivary glands
- Persistent cough or throat dryness
- Difficulty concentrating or "brain fog"
Certain symptoms may indicate more significant disease involvement and should be assessed by a healthcare professional:
- Severe or worsening fatigue
- Persistent joint swelling and pain
- Vision changes or eye pain
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the hands and feet
- Shortness of breath or ongoing respiratory symptoms
- Kidney-related symptoms such as swelling or changes in urination
- Unexplained weight loss or prolonged fever
The exact cause of Sjogren’s syndrome remains unclear. Researchers believe that a combination of genetic, immune system, hormonal, and environmental factors contributes to its development.
How is Sjogren’s Syndrome Diagnosed?
Diagnosing Sjogren’s syndrome can be challenging because its symptoms often resemble those of other medical conditions. The diagnostic process typically begins with a detailed review of
- patient's symptoms
- medical history
- family history of autoimmune diseases
During the physical examination, the doctor may look for signs of dry eyes, dry mouth, swollen salivary glands, joint pain, skin changes, and other symptoms that may indicate Sjogren’s syndrome.
- Blood tests are done to identify abnormalities associated with autoimmune disorders.
- Eye examinations can assess the severity of dryness and determine whether the eyes have sustained any damage due to reduced tear production.
- Salivary gland function tests help measure saliva flow and identify gland dysfunction that may be associated with the condition.
- Imaging studies may be recommended to evaluate the structure and function of the salivary glands.
Treatment and Management of Sjogren’s Syndrome
Doctors may recommend medications to help manage dryness, reduce inflammation, relieve joint pain, and control immune system activity when necessary. Treatment choices vary depending on the severity of symptoms and whether the disease affects organs beyond the tear and salivary glands.
- Artificial tears, lubricating eye products, saliva substitutes, and medications that stimulate moisture production may help reduce discomfort.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental check-ups are also important for preventing oral health complications.
Follow-up visits help ensure that treatment plans remain appropriate and effective as a patient’s needs change over time. By maintaining regular communication with healthcare professionals and adhering to recommended care plans, individuals with Sjogren’s syndrome can better manage their condition and maintain a higher quality of life.
Living Well with Sjogren’s Syndrome
Although Sjogren’s syndrome is a chronic condition, many people can lead active and fulfilling lives with the right combination of medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and symptom management strategies. Understanding the condition and taking proactive steps to manage symptoms can help improve comfort and overall well-being.
Tips for Daily Symptom Management
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking water regularly throughout the day.
- Use artificial tears or other doctor-recommended eye lubricants to help relieve dry eyes.
- Maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups to reduce the risk of cavities and oral infections caused by dry mouth.
- Avoid smoking and limit exposure to dry or dusty environments that may worsen symptoms.
- Use a humidifier indoors to add moisture to the air and reduce dryness.
- Follow a balanced diet and engage in regular physical activity to support overall health and manage fatigue.
- Get adequate rest and practice stress-management techniques, as stress can sometimes worsen symptoms.
How Families and Communities Can Support Sjogren’s Awareness?
Families and communities play an important role in improving awareness and understanding of Sjogren’s syndrome. Since the condition is often misunderstood or diagnosed late, spreading accurate information about its symptoms, risk factors, and potential complications can help more people recognize the signs and seek medical attention earlier.
Supporting individuals living with Sjogren’s syndrome is equally important. The condition can affect daily activities, work, and overall quality of life due to symptoms such as fatigue, dry eyes, dry mouth, and joint pain.
Family members, friends, colleagues, and caregivers can provide practical and emotional support by understanding the challenges associated with the condition, encouraging treatment adherence, and helping create a supportive environment.
Greater awareness and community support can help individuals with Sjogren’s syndrome feel more understood, empowered, and better equipped to manage their health.
How Artemis Hospital Supports Sjogren’s Syndrome Diagnosis and Care?
Managing Sjogren’s syndrome often requires care from multiple specialists, as the condition can affect different parts of the body. At Artemis Hospitals, we are equipped with advanced diagnostic facilities that support accurate and timely diagnosis.
Based on each patient’s symptoms, disease severity, and overall health, personalized treatment plans are developed to help manage symptoms, reduce complications, and improve quality of life. Care does not end with diagnosis or initial treatment. We also provide long-term monitoring to track disease progression, evaluate treatment effectiveness, and adjust whenever needed.
Article by Dr. Sumeet Agrawal
Chief - Rheumatology
Artemis Hospitals
