What it is
Sjogren's syndrome is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system may affect glands that make moisture, including the tear glands and salivary glands. When the tear glands are affected, the eyes may not make enough tears, or the tears may not protect the eye surface well.
This can lead to dry eye symptoms such as burning, grittiness, redness, light sensitivity, blurry vision that comes and goes, and sometimes a feeling of something in the eye. Dry mouth, fatigue, and joint discomfort can also occur with Sjogren's, though experiences vary a great deal from person to person.
Because the eye surface depends on a steady, healthy tear film, ongoing dryness can sometimes irritate or stress the surface of the eye. That is one reason an evaluation by a licensed eye doctor matters, and why dry eye linked to an autoimmune condition is often looked at differently than occasional dryness from screens or weather.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Dry eye care in Sjogren's has traditionally centered on supporting the tear film and protecting the eye surface. Many people start with over-the-counter lubricating drops, gels, or ointments, along with everyday habits such as taking breaks from screens and paying attention to dry or windy environments.
Eye doctors may also look at the eyelids and oil glands, and may discuss options such as prescription drops, tear-conserving approaches like punctal plugs, or in-office procedures. Which of these, if any, is appropriate is a decision for a licensed clinician after an evaluation.
Some eye doctors also discuss biologic-based drops, such as autologous serum tears, which are made by a compounding pharmacy from the patient's own blood. These are not an FDA-approved drug. Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are also not FDA-approved as drugs, while some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products, which is a different pathway. These are not stem-cell treatments, and most amniotic tissue products contain no living stem cells after processing. Anyone curious should ask a provider about them.
How the right eye doctor may help
The right eye doctor, especially one familiar with dry eye and autoimmune conditions, may help by carefully evaluating the surface of your eyes, your tear film, and your symptoms. A visit generally includes a conversation about your history, any Sjogren's diagnosis, medications, and how dryness affects your daily life, followed by an exam using specialized lights and sometimes dyes or tests.
An eye doctor may also coordinate with your other doctors, such as a rheumatologist, since Sjogren's affects the whole body. They can explain what they find in plain language and discuss which options may or may not fit your situation. No outcome can be promised, and plans are individualized.
Helpful questions to ask include: What do you see on my eye surface? Which options do you consider appropriate for me, and why? If a product like serum tears or an amniotic-derived drop is mentioned, what is its source, how is it processed, what is its FDA or regulatory status, and what is the total cost? How will we know if something is helping, and when should I come back?
The whole-person view
Living with a chronic condition like Sjogren's can be tiring. Discomfort, poor sleep, and worry can feed into one another, and stress may make symptoms feel more noticeable. Body, mind, and daily stress all affect each other, so caring for the whole person can be a helpful part of the picture alongside eye care.
Some people find body-based support through Somatic Experiences helpful for working with stress held in the body, and others value talk therapy through Therapists.plus for coping with the emotional side of long-term health challenges. These are complementary options to explore at your own pace, not replacements for medical care.
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed eye doctor can evaluate your eyes and decide what is appropriate for you; this page is educational and not medical advice.
- Sjogren's syndrome is a medical condition, so licensed professionals should guide your overall care, including any coordination between your eye doctor and other physicians.
- Autologous serum tears and most amniotic-derived drops are not FDA-approved drugs, so ask any provider about the product, its source, processing, regulatory status, and total cost.
- For sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or other emergencies, call 911. If you are in emotional crisis, call or text 988.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best sjogrens syndrome dry eye treatment?
There is no single best sjogrens syndrome dry eye treatment, because the right approach depends on your eyes and overall health. A licensed eye doctor can evaluate your tear film and eye surface and discuss which options may be appropriate. Plans are individualized and results cannot be promised.
Can an eye doctor help with Sjogren's dry eye?
Yes, an eye doctor may help by examining your eye surface, identifying contributing factors, and discussing care options. They may also coordinate with your other doctors, such as a rheumatologist. What they recommend depends on your evaluation.
Are artificial tears enough for Sjogren's dry eye?
It depends on the person, and only a clinician can say what is enough for you. Many people begin with over-the-counter lubricating drops, gels, or ointments, while others discuss additional options with an eye doctor. If symptoms persist, an evaluation is a good next step.
Are serum tears FDA-approved for Sjogren's dry eye?
No, autologous serum tears are not an FDA-approved drug. They are compounded by a pharmacy from the patient's own blood. If you are curious about them, ask a licensed eye doctor whether they are appropriate and about the source, processing, and total cost.
Are amniotic eye drops FDA-approved?
Most amniotic-derived eye drops and serums are not FDA-approved as drugs. Some amniotic membrane devices are regulated as human tissue products, which is a different regulatory pathway. They are also not stem-cell treatments, since most processed amniotic tissue contains no living stem cells.
When should I see an eye doctor for Sjogren's dry eye?
See a licensed eye doctor if your eyes feel persistently dry, painful, red, or your vision changes, especially if you have or suspect Sjogren's. Seek emergency care by calling 911 for sudden vision loss or severe eye pain.
Educational resource. Placenta-Derived Eye Serum shares general information and connects people with independent eye doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.