When the synovial membrane that lies within the capsule of a joint is the target of a misdirected immune system, it causes inflammation to the joints. This membrane produces the gel-like synovial fluid which is responsible for lubricating the joints. Without this fluid, smooth joint movement would be impossible.

Inflammation is the body’s natural reaction to arthritic diseases, causing pain, swelling and heat. People with this progressive disease go through periods of increased activity called flares, followed by periods of relative remission, when the swelling and pain fade or disappear.

This disease can strike at any age. The onset is most common between ages of 25 and 55, and around 57% of sufferers are women.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The most common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is tender, swollen joints. It is usual for both sides of the body to be affected with the disease. Continue reading →

Sjogren’ syndrome occurs when the immune system erroneously targets specific body cells, causing reduced secretion of many body glands. Autoimmune disease triggers the abnormal production of extra antibodies in the blood, which target various tissues of the body, causing inflammation of the glands.

Symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome

Inflammation of the salivary, tear and other glands in the body causes severe dryness. The eyes, mouth and vagina are the regions most commonly affected by the resulting dryness.

Other symptoms include an absence or reduction of tears and a dry, gritty or burning sensation in the eyes. Redness, sensitivity to light and eye fatigue can all be a result of this disease.

Sometimes restriction of upper eyelids causes a staring appearance and the eyes may protrude. This is the result of a swelling of the tissue behind the eye. Continue reading →