# How can severe dry eyes caused by Sjögren's syndrome be managed?

Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome
Language: en
Category: ophthalmology
Publisher: ClinicsJo
Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.936Z
Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.936Z
Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome

Managing severe dry eyes resulting from Sjögren's syndrome focuses on relieving symptoms and improving comfort. This includes using lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) or ointments, in addition to prescribed medications such as cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra) that help the eyes produce more tears. In some cases, a doctor may recommend simple procedures like punctal plugs to maintain moisture in the eyes [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S4>).

Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the moisture-producing glands in the body, particularly in the eyes and mouth, leading to severe dryness [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S1>).

## Treatment Options for Dry Eyes

Treatment options for severe dry eyes in Sjögren's syndrome vary to suit individual needs. Key options include:

- **Over-the-counter eye drops and ointments:** Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops are foundational for managing mild dryness. Different types are available, and you may need to try several to find what works best for you. Nighttime lubricating ointments can provide longer-lasting moisture while sleeping [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S4>).

- **Prescription medications:** If dry eyes are more severe, an ophthalmologist may prescribe medications like cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra). These are eye drops that can help the eyes produce more tears [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S4>).

- **Punctal plugs:** A simple procedure where special plugs (called punctal plugs) are placed into the tear ducts at the inner corners of the eyes. These plugs prevent tears from draining too quickly, allowing them to remain in the eye longer and increase moisture [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S4>).

- **Surgery:** In rare cases, dry eyes can be caused by sagging lower eyelids, leading to rapid tear drainage. If this is the cause, an ophthalmologist may suggest surgery to repair the eyelids and help tears stay on the eyes [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S4>).

- **Immunosuppressant medications:** In severe cases that affect other parts of the body or when symptoms do not respond to other treatments, doctors may prescribe medications that suppress the immune system to reduce the attack on healthy tissues [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S1>).

## Practical Tips for Daily Management

In addition to medical treatments, several daily measures can help alleviate dry eyes and improve quality of life:

- **Avoid environmental irritants:** Try to avoid smoke, wind, and air conditioning, as these factors can increase dry eyes. Wearing protective sunglasses when going outdoors may help [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S2>).

- **Use air humidifiers:** Using a humidifier in rooms where you spend most of your time can help increase air moisture, reducing dry eyes [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S2>).

- **Frequent blinking:** When reading or using a computer or tablet, try to blink frequently to help spread tears across the surface of the eye [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S2>).

- **Adequate hydration:** Drink enough water (about 8 to 10 cups daily) to maintain overall body hydration [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S4>).

- **Dental care:** Since Sjögren's syndrome also causes dry mouth, it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly to prevent tooth decay and infections [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S2>).

## When Should You See a Doctor?

It is important to follow up with an ophthalmologist regularly to evaluate treatment effectiveness and adjust it as needed. You should see a doctor if dry eye symptoms worsen, or if you feel severe pain, changes in vision, or any signs of infection like severe redness or discharge [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S1>). Sjögren's syndrome can affect other parts of the body such as joints, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels, so comprehensive follow-up with a multidisciplinary medical team is vital to effectively manage the condition [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#source-S1>). For more information about Sjögren's syndrome and its impact on quality of life, you can visit [Sjögren's Syndrome: Managing Severe Dryness and Its Impact on Quality of Life (Arabic)](<https://clinicsjo.com/ar/articles/sjogrens-syndrome-managing-severe-dryness-and-its-impact-on-quality-of-life>).

## Medical references

- [Sjogren's Syndrome](<https://medlineplus.gov/sjogrenssyndrome.html>)

- [Sjögren's Disease](<https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/sjogrens-disease>)

- [Dry Eye | National Eye Institute](<https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/dry-eye>)

General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment.

Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/managing-severe-dry-eyes-sjogrens-syndrome#answer