There are several ways to test for Sjögren’s which I have added below, even though I have an Article on this very topic posted at Tina Turbin’s Gluten Free Help website.

I personally had the eye test done (brings back memories) and then the blood test done. I have an account with a lab and can order tests through my clinic (Karmic Health), so I will also check to see if there is a simple test that can be ordered.

So, how is Sjögren’s Syndrome diagnosed?

http://www.medicinenet.com/sjogrens_syndrome/article.htm

The diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome involves detecting the features of dryness of the eyes and mouth. The dryness of the eyes can be determined in the doctor’s office by testing the eye’s ability to wet a small testing paper strip placed under the eyelid (Schirmer’s test using Schirmer tear test strips). More sophisticated eye testing can be done by an eye specialist (ophthalmologist). Salivary glands can become larger and harden or become tender. Salivary-gland inflammation can be detected by radiologic nuclear medicine salivary scans. Also, the diminished ability of the salivary glands to produce saliva can be measured with salivary flow testing. The diagnosis is strongly supported by the abnormal findings of a biopsy of salivary-gland tissue.

The glands of the lower lip are often used to obtain a biopsy sample of the salivary-gland tissue in the diagnosis of Sjögren’s yndrome. The lower lip salivary-gland biopsy procedure is easily performed under local anesthesia, with the surgeon making a tiny incision on the inner part of the lower lip, to expose and remove a sample of the tiny salivary glands within.

Patients with Sjögren’s syndrome typically produce a myriad of extra antibodies against a variety of body tissues (autoantibodies). These can be detected through blood testing and include antinuclear antibodies (ANAs), which are present in nearly all patients. Typical antibodies that are found in most, but not all patients, are SS-A and SS-B antibodies, rheumatoid factor, thyroid antibodies and others. Low red blood count (anemia) and abnormal blood testing for inflammation (sedimentation rate) are seen.

Another link with a list of tests, etc.

http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/s/sjogrens_syndrome/tests.htm

Sandi Star, CCN

You can read all about Sandi Star’s remarkable story in her 3-part article series available at the following links:  Living Gluten Free – Right to Heal – Part I, Living Healthy, Without Gluten and Dairy– Part II, Living Healthy, Without Gluten and Dairy Part III.  Afterwards, read Sandi’s information-packed article and true story: Going Blind.

About the author: Sandi Star, CCN Sandi is the founder of Karmic Health, specializing in nutrition related to disease where a gluten and casein (dairy) free lifestyle is crucial; working with celiac, autism and all auto immune disorders. Sandi graduated from The Natural Healing Institute with a degree in Clinical Nutrition and is continuing her studies in Clinical Herbology. She has hands on understanding of many health issues and has dedicated her life in helping others reach their optimal health.

For more information related to this article  (or her previous articles) please visit www.karmic-health.com or contact Sandi Star at 760.685.3154.

Tina Turbin
www.GlutenFreeHelp.info

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Tags: autoimmune disorder, celiac awareness, celiac disease, dairy free, gluten, gluten free foods, gluten free help, gluten intolerance, Gluten-Free, gluten-free diet, researcher, sjogren's, Sjögren's diagnosis, Sjögren's syndrome, women's issues

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