Important Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Sjögren's
Developing a good relationship with your doctor can make all the difference when discussing your symptoms. Many patients experiencing common symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome have multiple visits with multiple doctors before they reach a diagnosis.
If you have questions about your dryness symptoms or any other changes that you may be experiencing, it is important to talk to your doctor. It's up to you to take control of your health. Ask yourself: Am I experiencing any of these symptoms?
- Dry or itchy eyes
- Dry mouth or difficulty talking, chewing or swallowing
- Sore or cracked tongue
- Oral yeast infections, such as candidiasis
- Increased dental cavities
- Joint pain
- Vaginal dryness
- Skin dryness
If you experience one or more of these symptoms, you may be one of as many as four million Americans living with Sjögren's syndrome. Have you discussed your symptoms with your doctor?
Understanding and properly managing your symptoms is very important. If left untreated, dry-mouth symptoms may lead to additional complications including increased risk for dental cavities, yeast infections of the mouth (oral thrush), vision problems, or inflammation of the major organs.
If you are experiencing symptoms and have not been diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome, consider asking your doctor the following questions:
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My dry-mouth or dry-eye symptoms are impacting my daily activities. Could I have Sjögren's syndrome?
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Based on my symptoms, should I be tested for Sjögren's syndrome?
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Over-the-counter treatments are not relieving my dryness symptoms. Is it possible that I have an autoimmune disorder like Sjögren's syndrome?
If you have been diagnosed with Sjögren's syndrome, here are some questions you should consider asking your doctor:
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Are there changes that I can make in my lifestyle to help manage my Sjögren's syndrome symptoms?
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Are there prescription treatments that could help manage my dry-mouth and/or dry-eye symptoms?
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What could happen if my symptoms go untreated?
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Should I tell my other healthcare providers, like my dentist or ophthalmologist, about my Sjögren's syndrome?
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How often should I see a doctor about my Sjögren's syndrome?
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Are there local resources or support groups for people with Sjögren's syndrome?
