Hey Deb!
These guys have summed it up quite nicely. Sjogrens (pronounced Show-grens) syndrome is a dry problem that can occur in the eyes, nose, mouth, vagina area, etc. Pretty much anywhere that can get dry does! Not very fun. Some people get plugs put in there eyes (like Gemi said above) and others can get away with eye drops, mouth lubricants, and saline nose spray. I have Sjogrens too, it doesn't seem to bother me that much other than I need the eye drops frequently, especially in the morning! It feels like pins are poking in my eyes when I wake up! Your mom has the blood work for Sjogrens Syndrome, which I am glad that the Rheumy noticed and is treating this. I would see how dry her eyes and all that are, and see what kind of treatment would be best. Plaquenil does seem to help it too! It is a VERY symptomatic syndrome- every person is different! Does your mom complain of itchy dry eyes etc? I find that I always need to be drinking something because my mouth gets so pasty if I don't. Also- I have to add that Sjogren's can cause break down of the teeth too. I have 2 teeth that have chipped off recently because of my Sjogrens. Saliva is the defence for the teeth, and without a good supply of it the teeth break down. Ucky! Anyway.. take care
~Luv, Dana