I have Sjogrens, but I don't have RA (I have connective tissue disease).

I don't have any organ involvement. Organ involvement is rare with Sjogrens, and over the years I have talked to lots of people who have lots of dryness, but no organ problems, so don't let that part of the description of Sjogrens scare you.

My symptoms are all dryness related. I have dry eyes, mouth, nose, skin, hair, fingernails that are brittle, and vaginal dryness.

I use a variety of things to help the dryness. Biotene and Oasis products for the dry mouth, saline nasal spray, natural tears eye drops, good body lotion (usually that Norweigian fisherman stuff), moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, strengthening nail polish, lubricants for intimate moments with my husband.

Overall, having Sjogrens hasn't changed my life much. I carry eye drops and sugarless gum and moisturizing lotion in my purse so that I can combat dryness at any time, but other than that not much has changed.

I don't want to write a long book-like post about my Sjogrens, but if you have any questions, feel free to ask and hopefully I will be able to help based on my experience.

Liz

edited to change wording so that it (hopefully) made more sense