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Sjögren’s Disease

Duke rheumatologists are among the nation’s leading experts in the diagnosis and treatment of Sjögren’s disease. Sjögren’s is a chronic autoimmune disease in which white blood cells attack the glands that make saliva and tears, causing the mouth, eyes, vagina, and skin to feel excessively dry. It also causes system inflammation. We work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to reduce your symptoms, prevent complications, and help you live comfortably.

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Tests

Our goal is to diagnose Sjögren’s disease during its earliest stages in hopes of improving and managing symptoms. Dryness, fatigue, and joint pain can be from other causes, so you will likely be tested for additional conditions. Your evaluation will include a comprehensive review of your medical history, a thorough physical exam, and testing.

Blood Tests

Your doctor will order bloodwork that identifies the presence of antibodies associated with Sjögren’s syndrome as well as other autoimmune diseases, inflammation markers, as well as infectious disease and vitamin testing if applicable.

Schirmer’s Test

This test measures whether your eyes are producing enough tears to retain moisture. It involves placing a special paper strip under your eyelids for 5 minutes to measure the amount of moisture.

Salivary Gland Test

Your doctor may order an ultrasound or a biopsy of salivary gland tissue to better evaluate your dry mouth symptoms and function.

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Duke Health offers locations throughout the Triangle. Find one near you.

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Treatments

Currently, there is no FDA-approved medication that can slow the progression of Sjögren’s; however, new medicines are being tested in clinical trials at Duke, and some recent medicines have shown important improvements in treating Sjogren’s disease. These will be discussed with you at your visit as well as prescription, over-the-counter, and lifestyle changes that can help improve dryness, fatigue, and joint pain.

Artificial Tears

Using artificial tears can help alleviate dry eyes.

Topical Cyclosporine or Lifitegrast

This topical medication reduces inflammation in the glands around the eyes and increases tear production and may be prescribed by your ophthalmologist.

Autologous Serum Tears

Eye drops made from your own serum can be used to help with dryness and may be prescribed by your ophthalmologist.

Punctal Plugs or Tear Duct Cauterization

Your ophthalmologist can do a procedure that closes the tear ducts so that more of your own tears stay on the surface of the eye to help with dryness.

Orzal Pilocarpine or Cevimeline

These medications stimulate saliva flow.

Oral Hygiene

Dry mouth may increase your risk for cavities, gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), and oral yeast infections such as thrush. Your doctor will help you manage your dental care habits.

Immunosuppressants

Complications or serious symptoms affecting your entire body may require drugs that suppress your immune system.

Hydroxychloroquine

In some poeple, this medication can help with fatigue, joint pain, and rash. If you are prescribed hydroxychloroquine, you will need annual ophthalmologic screenings to monitor for side effects.

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Advanced Care for Sjögren’s Disease

Ongoing Studies

Research is a hallmark of our Sjögren’s program. Our doctors are exploring new treatments that could change the outcomes of Sjögren’s disease. As our patient, you may have the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial, testing the newest therapies on the market before they are made widely available. You may also be asked to participate in a registry study, where we can learn more about Sjogren’s disease over time.

A Team Approach to Care

Our rheumatologists work with multiple Duke specialists, including ophthalmologists and otolaryngologists (ENT doctors), who offer expertise in managing the dryness of the eyes and mouth typically associated with Sjögren’s disease.

Specialized Care for Pregnant People with Sjögren’s

A healthy pregnancy and baby are possible with Sjögren’s disease. However, the risk of complications (like fetal arrhythmia) is higher compared to people without the condition. We have a dedicated rheumatologist who sees women who are pregnant or wish to be pregnant and who have Sjögren’s disease.

Best Hospital for Rheumatology in North Carolina

Where you receive your care matters. Duke University Hospital is proud of our team and the exceptional care they provide. They are why our nationally ranked rheumatology program is also ranked the highest in North Carolina by US News & World Report for 2026–2027.

This page was medically reviewed on 09/03/2026 by

Teresa Tarrant, MD | Allergy & Immunology Specialist