Sjogrens progression

[trixieplayer]

Approximately 1 1/2 years ago I was hospitalized with a severe case of pancreatitis. After numerous tests accompanied with my recovery, it was discovered that I have Primary Sjogren's Syndrome and Sarcoidosis. In the past couple of months I have been really feeling poorly. I have gastroparesis and now a case of the shingles. Somedays, I am tired to the point of not wanting to get out of bed. I expected a slow progression over years, but am really suffering these past couple of months. Is there anyone out there that could offer any insight or suggestions on what I might be able to do for myself to feel better?

[trixieplayer]

Thank you very much for your advice. Currently I have chronic pancreatitis, gastroparesis, sarcoidosis, arthralgia, dry eyes, mouth and nose. I see my family physician regularly and specialists as well. I have recently developed a horrible rash and assume this is part of the disease process as well. My symptoms are being treated aggressively but it seems as though a lot of things are failing with my health rapidly.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
If you do not have symptoms like dry eyes, dry mouth, dry skin, then you should not worry much. If symptoms develop, then symptomatic relief is given in form of artificial tears for eyes, drinking plenty of fluids, and applying moisturizers. Also, dental care is important.
With age and time the symptoms can worsen and affect internal organs. Patient may develop blurred vision, difficulty in swallowing and eating, extreme fatigue, digestion problems, etc. Again treatment is symptomatic. In patients where there is affection of the different organs like gut, pancreas, lungs etc, which do not respond to symptomatic relief therapy, drugs like corticosteroids, immunosuppresants, methotrexate and other disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can be used. Otherwise there is no treatment for it except symptomatic relief.
Please discuss with your doctor. Take care!

The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.