/assets/production/practices/b927afd77f4ba3390238f099d6fa5ecd9f571e04/images/2819736.png)
We are excited to announce that Dr. Padma R. Chimata has been elected as the 2026 President of the Harris County Medical Society West Branch!
Do your eyes feel dry and itchy after long hours in front of a computer or spending time outside? This typically isn’t something to worry about. However, if you’re experiencing dry eyes more often, and they occur alongside other symptoms, such as joint pain, difficulty swallowing, or swollen salivary glands, it’s important to get evaluated.
These signs may point to an autoimmune condition called Sjögren’s syndrome, which can lead to more serious problems without treatment.
At Katy Rheumatology & Associates in Katy, Texas, double-board-certified rheumatologist Padma Chimata, MD, FACP, AGS, and our caring team can spot the warning signs of Sjögren’s syndrome, and help you attain effective relief. Here’s what you should know.
Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects nearly four million people in the United States. It causes the immune system to attack moisture-producing glands throughout the body, leading to dry eyes, dry mouth, and vaginal dryness.
Anyone can experience Sjögren’s syndrome, but it’s about 10 times more common in women than men. It also tends to affect people who already have other autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
The most common symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome are persistently dry eyes, dry mouth, or both. However, patients may also experience:
Since Sjögren’s syndrome can affect saliva production, patients are also more likely to develop dental issues, including gum disease and cavities.
Every patient’s experience is different. Some people develop all of the above symptoms, while others only experience one or two. In all cases, early evaluation and care are important.
An occasional bout of dry eyes or dry mouth by itself usually isn’t cause for concern. But if you develop these symptoms alongside joint pain or fatigue, and if they last longer than a few days or weeks, it’s essential to identify the underlying cause.
Our caring team is trained in screening for Sjögren’s and takes a comprehensive approach to ensure proper diagnosis. After reviewing your health records and discussing your symptoms, we complete a physical exam. We may also order blood work, conduct eye tests, and evaluate your salivary glands. Afterward, we use this information to determine whether you have Sjögren’s syndrome and develop a custom treatment plan.
Don’t wait to get screened, even if your symptoms are mild. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of more serious side effects, such as organ damage, and help you live a healthier, more comfortable life.
There’s no cure for Sjögren’s syndrome, but treatment can help slow the condition’s progression and improve your quality of life. Depending on your symptoms and their severity, we may recommend:
Many patients also benefit from lifestyle changes, such as applying skin moisturizers daily, running a humidifier, and eating a balanced, nutritious diet.
Sjögren’s syndrome can significantly affect your energy levels, mobility, and quality of life, but you don’t have to suffer. Take the first step toward healthier, happier living and schedule an evaluation at Katy Rheumatology & Associates in Katy, Texas, today.
