title: Coping strategies and support networks for Sjögren's syndrome patients.
abstract: Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease that can affect any organ system in the body. The most common symptoms are dryness of the mouth and eyes resulting from chronic inflammation and a progressive loss of secretory function. As with most individuals managing a chronic condition, patients with Sjögren's are on a multipronged path to disease and symptom management. Various coping strategies are presented in this article and the advantages and disadvantages discussed. Additionally, how a support group functions and practical guidance for the initiation of a Sjögren's support group are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral Medicine, Carolinas Center for Oral Health, 1601 Abbey Place, Suite 220, Charlotte, NC 28209, USA. Electronic address: Andrea.Herman@carolinashealthcare.org.
authors.forename: Andrea
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Herman
authors.forename: Steven
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Taylor
authors.forename: Jenene
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Noll
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012859:Sjogren's Syndrome / Q000523:psychology*; D012944:Social Support
keywords: Autoimmune condition; Chronic disorder; Coping strategies; Sjögren’s syndrome; Support groups