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Sjogrens syndrome is an autoimmune disease – that is, a disease in which the immune system turns against the bodys own cells. Normally, the immune system works to protect us from disease by destroying harmful invading organisms like viruses and bacteria.

In the case of Sjogrens syndrome, disease-fighting cells attack various organs, most notably the glands that produce tears and saliva (the lacrimal and salivary glands). Damage to these glands causes a reduction in both the quantity and quality of their secretions. This results in symptoms that include dry eyes and dry mouth.