Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

SLE or Lupus - is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in many parts of the body. - results in symptoms such as inflammation, swelling, and damage to joints, skin, kidneys, blood, the heart, and lungs. - it can be mild or life threatening

Sicca Syndrome (dryness) - also known as Sjögren's syndrome - is a long-term autoimmune disease in which the moisture- producing glands of the body are affected. This results primarily in the development of a dry mouth (xerostomia) and dry eyes (xerophthalmia).

Xerostomia - also known as dry mouth and dry mouth syndrome. - dryness in the mouth, which may be associated with a change in the composition of saliva, or reduced salivary flow, or have no identifiable cause. - difficulty in chewing, swallowing, and taste problems - Inflammation of the glands that produce the saliva in the mouth (salivary glands, including the parotid glands) leads to dry mouth. - affects people older than 40 but mostly in females

Diagnosis - Physical Exam - Blood Tests - Biopsy -a small sliver of tissue is removed from salivary glands located in your lip and examined under a microscope.

Treatment Drink lots of fluids, particularly water, to reduce dry mouth. Stimulate saliva flow. Sugarless gum or hard candies can boost saliva flow. Oral health Dry mouth increases your risk of dental cavities and tooth loss. The following precautions may help prevent those types of problems. Brush your teeth and floss after every meal. Schedule regular dental appointments, at least every six months. Use daily topical fluoride treatments and antimicrobial mouthwashes.