Does anyone else experience damaged corneas from Sjögren's disease along with lupus?
You're definitely not alone in dealing with this challenging combination. Between 14 percent and 18 percent of people with lupus also have Sjögren's disease, and eye complications are common with both conditions.
Dry eye disease affects about Show Full Answer
Does anyone else experience damaged corneas from Sjögren's disease along with lupus?
You're definitely not alone in dealing with this challenging combination. Between 14 percent and 18 percent of people with lupus also have Sjögren's disease, and eye complications are common with both conditions.
Dry eye disease affects about 16 percent of people with lupus, and it's even more common when Sjögren's is present. The sandy, gritty feeling you're experiencing is a classic symptom of severe dry eye.
When dry eye becomes severe, it can inflame and damage the eye surface, and ulcers can form on the cornea. This is exactly what you're dealing with, and it's a recognized complication of both conditions.
A MyLupusTeam member shared similar struggles: "My eyes are burning and itching." Another asked, "Anyone else having trouble with dry eyes?" Your treatment approach sounds appropriate. Steroid eye drops are commonly used to treat the inflammation and damage caused by severe dry eye. Other treatments that may help include:
- Artificial tears (liquid or gel form)
- Topical antibiotic ointments
- Anti-inflammatory eye drops
The connection between your lupus flare and the eye damage makes sense—both conditions involve inflammation that can worsen during flares. Keep working closely with your eye doctor and rheumatologist to manage both conditions together.
You're doing the right thing by fighting through this. Keep advocating for your eye health, as untreated corneal damage can affect vision long-term.
February 27
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