4. The Skin’s Silent Plea: Sjogren’s Syndrome and the Battle of Dry Skin
Our skin is the sentinel, the first line of defense, the canvas upon which the tales of our life, from joyous laughter to pensive moments, are etched. For someone with Sjogren’s, the skin tells a story that’s a shade more complex.
Dry skin in itself isn’t unique to Sjogren’s. However, what distinguishes this from the regular dryness is its persistence and intensity. Skin doesn’t just feel parched; it screams for hydration, appearing flaky, almost as if the desert winds have had their way with it.
It isn’t just the exterior aridness; it’s what this symbolizes. This is a reflection of the body’s internal struggles, the autoimmune resistance that’s constantly underway. The moisture-secreting glands, just like in the mouth and eyes, are under attack, reducing their output.
The implications go beyond the aesthetic. The skin, lacking its necessary moisture, loses elasticity, and becomes prone to cuts and bruises. Every touch feels rough, every brush against fabric becomes noticeable, and the cold can be particularly unkind. (4)
