Overview
It can occur alone or with lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Dry mouth raises the risk of cavities, so dental care matters.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Dry eyes and dry mouth
- Dry eyes and dry mouth together
Less common
- Tiredness
- Joint pain
- Swollen glands by the jaw
Look up a symptom: Fatigue
When to get medical care
Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todaySwollen glands that stay hard or grow.
See a doctor soonDryness affecting daily life.
Causes
Immune system attack on glands.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Women
- Other autoimmune diseases
Possible complications
- Lymphoma: Slightly higher risk
Diagnosis
Blood tests and eye and mouth tests.
Questions you may be asked
- Dryness, joint pain
The exam
Eye and mouth exam.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Antibody tests:
- Tear test:
Treatment
Keep eyes and mouth moist.
Self-care
- Use artificial tears
- Sip water and chew sugar-free gum
- Use a humidifier
- See a dentist every 6 months
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Saliva boosters | Dry mouth | Prescription. |
| Immune medicines | Joint pain |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Prevention
To protect teeth:
- Fluoride toothpaste
- Dental checkups
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to a rheumatologist (joint and immune system doctor).
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Manageable.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and supplements
- Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
Questions to ask
- Do I have another immune condition too?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.