4. The Silent Damage: Kidneys and Life Expectancy in Sjögren’s
The kidneys, those silent workhorses, aren’t exempt from the reach of Sjögren’s. While not the most common issue tied to the syndrome, renal complications can have profound implications.
Interstitial nephritis, an inflammation of spaces between the kidney tubules, has been seen in some Sjögren’s patients. This condition can gradually reduce kidney function, leading to chronic kidney disease if not diagnosed and treated in time. Considering the kidneys’ essential role in filtering waste, reduced functionality isn’t just a local issue – it has body-wide implications.
Disturbances in the body’s acid balance due to tubular acidosis is another kidney-related complication. This condition disrupts the kidneys’ ability to maintain a balance of acid and base in the blood. Over time, this can lead to a range of issues, from kidney stones to weakened bones.
The ripple effects of kidney issues due to Sjögren’s aren’t to be underestimated. Given the kidneys’ role in everything from blood pressure regulation to red blood cell production, complications here can shorten life expectancy. (4)
