The Most Effective Natural Treatments for Sjogren’s Syndrome

8 Proven Natural Treatments for Sjogren’s Syndrome

If you’re living with Sjogren’s syndrome, you’re probably familiar with the daily challenges that come with symptoms like dry mouth, dry eyes, joint pain, and fatigue. While there is no cure for the condition, there are natural treatments that can help ease your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

In this article, I’ll explore eight proven natural treatments that have helped many of my patients manage their Sjogren’s symptoms and regain control over their health.

What Is Sjogren’s Syndrome?

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that mainly affects the salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to dry mouth and dry eyes. However, the disease impacts more than just these two areas. It can also affect other mucous membranes in the body, including the lungs, gut, and sinuses. The systemic nature of the disease means that it can cause a variety of symptoms beyond just dryness, making it important to take a holistic approach to managing the condition.

Symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome

The symptoms of Sjogren’s vary from person to person, and can even change in intensity over time. Some individuals may not immediately recognize that their symptoms are linked to this autoimmune disorder. Common symptoms include:

• Digestive issues, such as leaky gut
• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Gum and dental problems
• Headaches
• Joint pain
• Lung problems
• Sinus issues

What Causes Sjogren’s Syndrome?

As a functional medicine doctor, I focus on identifying the root causes and triggers of Sjogren’s syndrome. Common factors that can trigger or worsen symptoms include:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Insulin resistance
• Poor sleep
• Chronic mental stress
• Imbalances in the gut microbiome
• Poor dietary choices

Conventional Treatments for Sjogren’s Syndrome

Standard treatments for Sjogren’s usually involve medications such as NSAIDs, steroids, and immunosuppressants. These drugs help to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms, but they can also lead to unwanted side effects, like stomach issues, weight gain, and a higher risk of infections. Plus, not everyone responds well to these treatments, and some may prefer to avoid the side effects.

Natural Treatments for Sjogren’s Syndrome

Natural treatments for Sjogren’s can be just as effective for managing symptoms, without the risks of traditional medications. In my practice, we address the root causes of the disease to help patients find lasting relief. Here are some natural treatments that have proven effective:

Better Sleep

Lack of sleep can increase inflammation and contribute to Sjogren’s flare-ups. Sleep is crucial for managing stress and inflammation, so we work with patients to improve their sleep quality and treat insomnia.

Stress Reduction

Mental stress is a key trigger for Sjogren’s symptoms. Stress can lead to higher levels of cortisol, which increases inflammation. We recommend using adaptogenic herbs to balance cortisol levels, and relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or tai chi to help reduce stress. These practices not only relieve stress but can also improve overall well-being, which in turn helps manage Sjogren’s symptoms.

Proper Diet

A diet that supports your body’s natural healing processes is essential for managing Sjogren’s. Avoiding inflammatory foods like sugar and excess omega-6 fatty acids can help prevent flare-ups. Instead, focus on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon) and antioxidants (from fruits and vegetables). Staying hydrated is also important, so aim to drink 8-10 glasses of water a day and avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dryness.

Environmental Exposures

Environmental toxins, like chemicals and mold, can worsen autoimmune conditions by stressing the immune system. Detoxifying the body by reducing exposure to these toxins can relieve some of the burden and help restore immune balance. We help patients identify and avoid harmful exposures in their environment.

Fixing Leaky Gut and Digestion

Since Sjogren’s affects mucous membranes, the gut is often vulnerable. Many patients with Sjogren’s have gut issues, which can worsen their symptoms. By working with a functional medicine provider, you can undergo tests to uncover the root cause of gut problems. If leaky gut is a factor, probiotics and gut-healing diets can support better digestion and reduce inflammation.

Hormone Balancing and Insulin Sensitivity

Hormonal imbalances, particularly in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, can play a role in worsening Sjogren’s. Addressing these imbalances with the right treatment can help improve your overall health. Additionally, insulin resistance is another common issue for Sjogren’s patients. Working with a functional medicine doctor to test and improve insulin sensitivity can have a positive impact on symptoms.

Dealing with Dry Eyes in Sjogren’s

Dry eyes are a hallmark symptom of Sjogren’s, and there are two effective natural remedies for this. The first is omega-3 fish oil, which helps reduce inflammation and provides lubrication for the eyes. Omega-3s support regulatory T cells (Tregs), which help calm an overactive immune response. I recommend 2-4 grams of high-quality fish oil daily to manage dry eyes and other dry areas of the body.

Alongside omega-3 supplementation, using nutritional eye drops can also help replenish moisture and nutrients in the eyes.

Oral Hygiene for Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can lead to dental issues, so it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss, and consider using a probiotic lozenge to support your oral health and prevent dental problems caused by dryness.

These natural treatments can significantly improve the symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome when used consistently and in combination with lifestyle changes. By addressing the root causes of the disease, you can find lasting relief and improve your overall health.