Sjogren's Syndrome Support Group
Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which immune cells attack and destroy the exocrine glands that produce tears and saliva. It also associated with rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, and it is rheumatoid factor positive in 90 percent of cases.
Does anyone know if people with Sjogrens are more vulnerable to the COVID-19? They say people with autoimmune disorders are more vulnerable. I wonder if this is the case with SJ...
So, you have nothing to worry about unless you are on an
immosupressant such as: "Examples include prednisone, methylprednisolone, Imuran, azathioprine, methotrexate, leflunomide, Arava, CellCept, mycophenolate, Rituxan, cyclophosphamide."
More here:
https://www.sjogrens.org/news/575-covid-19-sjoegren-s-precautions
https://www.sjogrens.org/news/575-covid-19-sjoegren-s-precautions?utm_campaign=COVID%2019&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=85056165&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_ikmAZjQWy8TLQVqy8Q5JnVDrCjpeAl7Cb_C85t1g3pJZ2x8THDO37phLRDNZtJiLrx_WuFd5pnN05dLUbC-3417o9-g&_hsmi=85056165
However, I have such a dry mouth, nose and throat, I do think it can make us more inclined to pick up germs and viruses are hold onto them. A dry mouth damages teeth, because the plaque is not easily washed away. I wonder if it would work the same for a virus? No clue, just wondering.
If you are able, stay away from people, and wash your hands well during the day!
"In 9–20% of cases, Sjögren's syndrome is associated with various respiratory symptoms. The most typical manifestations are chronic interstitial lung disease (ILD) and tracheobronchial disease. The most common manifestation of ILD is nonspecific interstitial pneumonia in its fibrosing variant."
This seems to be more of an issue for primary SS. Mine is secondary. I came across this because I was googling: "Sjogrens cough" because I am coughing more than usual and it's embarassing and worrisome now. I took my temp 3 times yesterday!