Sjögren's Syndrome Rheumatology Appointment Prep
Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition affecting moisture-producing glands, causing dry eyes and mouth. It is often missed or misdiagnosed as dry eye syndrome alone. Many patients struggle for years before diagnosis. Your rheumatologist needs specific description of dryness symptoms, systemic symptoms, and previous testing.
Reviewed by the Brief My Doctor editorial team · Last updated June 2026
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What to tell your doctor
- 1Dry eye symptoms: grittiness, redness, pain, photosensitivity, blurred vision
- 2Dry mouth symptoms: difficulty eating, speaking, swallowing, persistent thirst
- 3Systemic symptoms: joint pain, fatigue, muscle pain, swollen salivary glands, fever
- 4Whether you have cavities or frequent mouth infections
- 5Vaginal dryness if relevant
- 6Whether symptoms worsen in certain seasons or with certain triggers
- 7Family history of autoimmune conditions
- 8Previous ophthalmology or rheumatology assessments
Questions to ask your doctor
- Q1.Do my symptoms and tests confirm Sjögren's?
- Q2.What blood tests are needed (anti-SSA/SSB antibodies)?
- Q3.Should I have a salivary gland biopsy?
- Q4.What treatments help dry eye and dry mouth?
- Q5.Are there systemic treatments to reduce inflammation?
- Q6.Should I see an ophthalmologist regularly?
- Q7.What is the long-term outlook for Sjögren's?
- Q8.Are there complications I should watch for?
Don't forget to bring
- ✓Previous blood test results: rheumatoid factor, ANA, anti-SSA/SSB
- ✓Ophthalmology reports: Schirmer's test results, tear osmolarity
- ✓Timeline of dry eye and dry mouth onset
- ✓Systemic symptoms: joint pain, fatigue, swollen glands
- ✓Family history of autoimmune disease
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