Question: What can be done for Sjogren's syndrome? I was told by a doctor at a metabolic clinic that I caused it by stopping the diet he had me on. I was also given special enzymes to take before eating. I hate the dry mouth and dry eyes, my taste buds are ruined, and my mouth feels awful. Currently I take Evoxac (30 mg) three times a day. I am also a Type-2, insulin-dependent diabetic.

Dr. Hibberd's Answer:

Sjogren's syndrome is a condition where salivary gland secretions dry up. It is believed to have an autoimmune basis. The Evoxac three times daily is designed to improve your secretions as a salivary stimulant, but sometimes much more is needed. Local drops of cyclosporin (Restasis) will help dry eye, and immune suppressants are often used to modify Sjogren's. Immune-suppressant therapy is usually initiated by a rheumatologist, so I recommend you seek consultation as soon as possible, since you are too uncomfortable with your present insufficient management program.