What causes Sjogren's Syndrome?

Sjogren's Syndrome is caused by an autoimmune response where your immune system mistakenly attacks the glands that produce tears and saliva. White blood cells called lymphocytes infiltrate these moisture-producing glands and damage them, leading to inflammation and reduced secretion. The exact trigger is unknown, but genetic factors combined with viral infections like Epstein-Barr virus may activate this autoimmune response in susceptible individuals.

What is the best test for Sjogren's Syndrome?

The Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Panel 1 is the most important test for Sjogren's Syndrome because it detects Rheumatoid Factor, which is elevated in about 60-70% of Sjogren's patients. This autoantibody indicates active autoimmune disease and helps distinguish Sjogren's from simple dry eye or dry mouth caused by medications or aging. Additional tests like the Anti-dsDNA Antibodies test and PCNA Antibody test can help identify overlapping autoimmune features and confirm the diagnosis when combined with clinical symptoms.

When should I get tested for Sjogren's Syndrome?

You should get tested if you experience persistent dry eyes that feel gritty or burning, chronic dry mouth that makes swallowing difficult, or dental cavities that develop rapidly despite good oral hygiene. Testing is especially important if you have other autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, since Sjogren's often occurs alongside these diseases. You should also consider testing if you experience unexplained joint pain, chronic fatigue, or swollen salivary glands that last more than a few weeks.

What are the symptoms of Sjogren's Syndrome?

The primary symptoms are dry eyes that feel sandy or irritated and dry mouth that makes speaking or swallowing uncomfortable. You might also notice swollen salivary glands near your jaw, frequent dental cavities, difficulty wearing contact lenses, or needing to drink water constantly. Many people experience fatigue, joint pain and stiffness similar to arthritis, dry skin, vaginal dryness, and a persistent dry cough. Some individuals develop complications affecting the kidneys, lungs, liver, or nervous system over time.

Who is at risk for Sjogren's Syndrome?

Women are nine times more likely than men to develop Sjogren's Syndrome, with most diagnoses occurring after age 40. You have higher risk if you already have another autoimmune disease like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, thyroid disease, or celiac disease. Family history matters too, as genetic factors increase susceptibility to autoimmune disorders. People with certain genetic markers related to immune function are more prone to developing this condition.

What happens if Sjogren's Syndrome is left untreated?

Untreated Sjogren's Syndrome can lead to serious complications affecting multiple organs. Chronic dry eyes may cause corneal damage, infections, and vision problems, while persistent dry mouth increases risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral yeast infections. The autoimmune inflammation can spread beyond the glands, causing kidney problems, lung inflammation, blood vessel inflammation, and peripheral nerve damage. About 5% of people with Sjogren's develop lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, making regular monitoring and treatment essential.

Can Sjogren's Syndrome be diagnosed with a blood test?

Yes, blood tests are essential for diagnosing Sjogren's Syndrome by detecting specific autoimmune antibodies. Tests for Rheumatoid Factor, anti-SSA and anti-SSB antibodies, antinuclear antibodies, and complement proteins help confirm the autoimmune nature of the condition. However, diagnosis requires both positive blood test results and clinical symptoms like dry eyes and dry mouth, since some people have antibodies without active disease. Your doctor may also perform eye tests, saliva flow measurements, or salivary gland biopsies to complete the diagnosis.

How is Sjogren's Syndrome treated?

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications since there is no cure for Sjogren's Syndrome. For dry eyes, you can use artificial tears, prescription eye drops like cyclosporine or lifitegrast, and moisture chamber glasses. Dry mouth is managed with saliva substitutes, prescription medications like pilocarpine or cevimeline that stimulate saliva production, and meticulous dental care. For systemic symptoms, doctors may prescribe hydroxychloroquine to reduce inflammation, or stronger immunosuppressants like methotrexate or rituximab for severe cases affecting internal organs.

How can I prevent Sjogren's Syndrome?

There is no way to prevent Sjogren's Syndrome since it results from genetic susceptibility and unknown environmental triggers. However, if you have other autoimmune diseases or family history, you can monitor for early symptoms and seek prompt diagnosis. Avoiding smoking is important, as it worsens dry eye and mouth symptoms and increases complications. Maintaining good overall health through balanced nutrition, stress management, and regular medical checkups may help reduce autoimmune disease severity if it develops.

What can I do at home for Sjogren's Syndrome?

At home, use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially while sleeping, and drink water frequently throughout the day. Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies to stimulate saliva production, and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and salty foods that worsen dry mouth. For dry eyes, take breaks from screens, use artificial tears regularly, and wear wraparound sunglasses outdoors to reduce evaporation. Maintain excellent oral hygiene with fluoride toothpaste, regular flossing, and dental checkups every three to four months to prevent cavities.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

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Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

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During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Sjogren's Syndrome Blood Test

What is Sjogren's Syndrome?

Sjogren's Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks glands that produce tears and saliva, causing chronic dry eyes and dry mouth. It is caused by the immune system mistakenly targeting healthy moisture-producing cells, often with elevated autoimmune antibodies like anti-SSA, anti-SSB, and Rheumatoid Factor. The Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Panel 1 is the most important test for diagnosis as it detects Rheumatoid Factor, which is frequently elevated in Sjogren's Syndrome patients.

Written by Private MD Labs Medical Team

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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