World Sjögren’s Day, celebrated annually on July 23rd, is a significant annual event dedicated to providing support to millions of individuals living with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease affecting the entire body. This day serves as an opportunity to educate loved ones, spread awareness, and ensure that the impact of this life-altering disease is acknowledged.
Supporting the Sjögren's Foundation
NuVision invites you to support the Sjögren’s Foundation (https://sjogrens.org) by actively participating in World Sjögren’s Day. By engaging in conversations about Sjögren’s with the people in your life, sharing personal experiences, and enlightening others about the disease, you can play a crucial role in spreading the message that Sjögren’s is a serious condition deserving recognition. Additionally, your contribution may provide valuable assistance to those seeking answers and support.
Understanding Sjögren's Syndrome: A Systemic Autoimmune Disease
Sjögren’s syndrome is a systemic autoimmune disease characterised by extensive dryness throughout the body. While dry eyes and dry mouth are the most common symptoms, patients may also experience profound fatigue, chronic pain, major organ involvement, neuropathies, and lymphomas. The disease progression varies from person to person, with some experiencing mild discomfort while others endure debilitating symptoms. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatments are crucial to prevent serious complications and enhance patients’ quality of life. It is worth noting that Sjögren’s can occur alone or in conjunction with other autoimmune connective tissue diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, or Scleroderma.
Despite common misconceptions, Sjögren’s is not a rare disease. In fact, it is estimated that there are 300,000 Britain’s living with this condition, making it one of the most prevalent autoimmune diseases.
Impact on the Eyes: Understanding Sjögren's Ocular Symptoms
Sjögren’s syndrome often presents challenges in diagnosis due to the general nature of its symptoms, which can overlap with other conditions. Sjögren’s attacks the glands responsible for keeping the eyes, mouth, and other body parts moist.
Decreased tear production can lead to extremely dry, itchy, or burning eyes, causing excessive blinking. Patients may experience a sensation of foreign objects in their eyes, redness, watery eyes, blurred vision, and sensitivity to bright or fluorescent lights. Additionally, Sjögren’s can lead to oral thrush, cavities, and vision problems like corneal ulcers. Recognizing these eye-related symptoms can aid in early diagnosis and prompt treatment.
Celebrating Dr. Henrik Sjögren: A Medical Pioneer
World Sjögren’s Day holds special significance as it commemorates the birthday of Dr. Henrik Sjögren, the Swedish ophthalmologist who discovered Sjögren’s syndrome in 1933. The Sjögren’s Foundation, which initiated this day, aims to raise awareness for Sjögren’s and its impact on millions of patients worldwide. Dr. Henrik Sjögren’s work not only paved the way for researchers but also helped individuals living with this complex disease.
Supporting Research and Education
World Sjögren’s Day presents a remarkable opportunity to contribute to Sjögren’s research and education. By making a donation at https://sjogrens.org, you can actively support ongoing efforts to advance understanding, treatment, and ultimately improve the lives of individuals with Sjögren’s syndrome.
On this World Sjögren’s Day, let us unite in raising awareness for Sjögren’s syndrome, supporting those affected by the disease, and striving to conquer its complexities. By engaging in conversations, and sharing personal experiences, we can collectively make a difference in the lives of millions. Together, we can create a world where Sjögren’s is recognised, understood, and met with compassion and support.
Remember, World Sjögren’s Day is July 23rd, and your involvement matters. Join us in spreading awareness and empowering those affected by Sjögren’s syndrome. Visit https://sjogrens.org to learn more and make a donation to support the cause. Together, we can make a lasting impact!
