Being a Medical Student, Jenny
While starting medical school at 25 years old, I dealt with the symptoms of parotid swelling, dry painful eyes, and dry mouth for about 5-6 years leading up. As a first year medical student, I remember learning about Sjögren's and that it affected women later on in life. Even though I was aware of the symptoms and how similar they were to mine, I didn't give it any thought due to my age. In my second year of medical school I went to my primary care physician asking for a referral to an otorhinolaryngologists because my parotid glands were becoming painful and swollen on a daily basis. Before she referred me, she asked about my Sjögren's symptoms, ran some blood tests, and sure enough, I was blaringly positive for all the rheumatological markers. I subsequently had a salivary gland biopsy and this confirmed the diagnosis.
From there, I was set up with a rheumatologist and ophthalmologist who put me on the regimen I'm on today. I was also told to browse the Sjögren's Foundation website to research other ways to alleviate my symptoms. Learning the ways in which other's survive their symptoms has drastically improved my quality of life.
I thank my doctors and the Sjögren's Foundation for brining awareness to this diagnosis and telling the stories beyond just the dry eyes and dry mouth. This disease is so much more than that. If you're a student struggling with this, just know you are not alone. Though you cannot completely rid the pain, and that the circumstances of education can exacerbate the symptoms, know there are many things you can do (ie: medications, over the counter products, and lifestyle modifications) to diminish their affect on you.
Share Your Story
Each Patient-to-Patient story discusses a specific symptom or aspect of living with Sjögren’s. They are a unique look into how individuals manage their disease.
These stories will be shared once a month for patients to share directly how they are effectively coping with the disease and offer advice for others.
*All stories come from the patient's voice. The listing of any products does not constitute as an endorsement of those products. We strongly advise that you consult with your physician, dentist and/or pharmacist regarding your treatment plan and finding what is right for you.
To submit a Patient-to-Patient story click here.
