9. Nerve Narratives: Sjogren’s and the Tales of Peripheral Neuropathy
Most are familiar with the tales of dry eyes and mouth that Sjogren’s patients recount. But there’s another narrative, less spoken about but equally profound: the tales of peripheral neuropathy.
At its core, neuropathy is about damaged nerves. But in the context of Sjogren’s, it’s a symphony of sensations: tingling, like a million ants marching; numbness, patches of skin seeming like they don’t belong; or even pain, sharp and sudden or dull and lingering.
What’s intriguing is the why of it all. While the exact reasons remain a subject of research, there’s a consensus that the body’s immune response might mistakenly target the peripheral nerves. It’s a case of mistaken identity, where the body’s defense mechanism turns against its own.
Every twitch, every unexpected sensation, is a testament to the body’s complexity and the delicate balance it often treads. It’s also a nod to the spirit of those navigating these challenges, finding joy in moments, and cherishing the times of calm. (9)
