Lotions are not typically moisturizing enough for patients with Sjögren's. The best ointments are Vaseline® or Aquaphor®. If an ointment is too greasy for your taste, cream moisturizers like CeraVe®, VanicreamTM, Eucerin®, or Aveeno®can be used.
Use soap bars that contain glycerin instead of those that contain fragrances and other chemical ingredients. Washing strips the skin of its natural oils so using glycerin-based soaps can help prevent moisture loss and keep the skin hydrated.
Keep the mouth moist by sipping small amounts of water during the day. However, excessive sips of water can reduce the oral mucus film and increase symptoms. Avoid frequent intake of acidic beverages (such as most carbonated and sports replenishment drinks). Drink water while eating to aid chewing and swallowing.
Daily use of a prescription- based fluoride product, such as Prevident gel or Prevident 5000Plus toothpaste at bedtime following brushing and flossing may be recommended.
Apply a non-irritating lip balm (or lip moisturizer) several times a day and before bed. If your lips are very dry and cracked, try a thick ointment, such as white petroleum jelly. Ointment seals in water longer than waxes or oils. Slather on a non-irritating lip balm with SPF 30 or higher before going outdoors.
Avoiding foods that tend to exacerbate symptoms including alcohol, caffeine, acidic foods, and spicy foods.
Sip water or sugarless drinks often. Let small ice chips melt in your mouth. Avoid drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and some sodas – caffeine can dry out the mouth.
The body's immune system attacks glands that secrete fluid, such as the tear and saliva glands. The effects of Sjögren's syndrome can be widespread. Certain glands become inflamed, which reduces the production of tears and saliva, causing the main symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome, which are dry eyes and dry mouth.
Sjögren's syndrome can cause nerve damage which regulates the coordination of heartbeat, respiration, and gastric motility. This is called an “autonomic neuropathy.” Examples of symptoms include lightheadedness when standing, decreased or increased sweating, and feeling full despite eating small meals.
Several new, potentially disease-modifying drugs in the pipeline have renewed clinical optimism. St. Clair says existing treatment options include sialagogues such as pilocarpine and cevimeline that are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of glandular manifestations of Sjögren syndrome.
Avoid alpha-hydroxy acids, glycolic acid, retinoic acid, and salicylic acid if you have dry or sensitive skin. These ingredients may penetrate the skin too deeply and trouble delicate skin. Stay away from products with alcohols as well.
Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil supplements, are recommended by the Sjögren Syndrome Foundation as an important part of treatment.
Foods that are good for Sjogren's syndrome
This would include foods like fish, nuts, olive oil, and avocados, all of which are good for inflammation.
Polyphenols in Blueberry Leaves May Reduce Sjögren's Lacrimal Dryness.
Allergens : Allergenic foods such as dairy, peanuts, and eggs should be avoided by those with Sjogren's syndrome, even if they do not have allergies to these foods.
Falk: What kinds of factors can make Sjogren's worse? What is the effect, for example, of stress? Jonas: Well, like all autoimmune diseases, patients who feel stressed or are under unusual stress will often have exacerbation of their symptoms. Learning to manage that stress in your life is very important.
You should also avoid sugary foods that can contribute to rapid tooth decay, which is already increased by lower saliva production in Sjogren's syndrome.
Drinking plenty of water and ensuring that your body is hydrated can improve your overall health and promote healthy skin, your lips included! When you're drinking enough water every day, it'll help your lips stay hydrated, so they feel soft and healthy.
Vitamin B-3 Without enough vitamin B-3 or niacin, a person may experience dry, cracked lips or tongue and a red, swollen mouth. A deficiency of this vitamin can also lead to dermatitis. People can get niacin in their diet by eating beef, pork, halibut, tuna, poultry, whole grains, dairy, and green leafy vegetables.
Yes, honey is good for chapped lips and dry lips, too! It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties. You can apply honey to your lips throughout the day to protect chapped lips from cracking or infection, promote healing and add moisture.