Illness Experiences in Women with Oral Dryness as a Result of Sjögren's Syndrome: The Patient Point of View

• Published in: Musculoskeletal care Vol. 14; no. 4; pp. 233 - 242
• Main Authors: Rojas-Alcayaga, Gonzalo, Herrera Ronda, Andrea, Espinoza Santander, Iris, Bustos Reydet, Claudia, Ríos Erazo, Matías, Wurmann, Pamela, Sabugo, Francisca, Geenen, Rinie
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Blackwell Publishing Ltd 01-12-2016; Wiley Subscription Services, Inc
• Subjects: Adaptation, Psychological; Aged; Female; health experiences; Humans; Middle Aged; oral dryness; Sjogren's Syndrome - physiopathology; Sjogren's Syndrome - psychology; Sjögren's Syndrome; Social Adjustment; health experiences; oral dryness; Sjögren's Syndrome
• ISSN: 1478-2189; 1557-0681
• DOI: 10.1002/msc.1134

Background
Sjögren's syndrome and the associated dryness can have multiple consequences. The aim of the present qualitative study was to give an in‐depth account of the life experiences of women with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) and health‐related behaviours, and to summarize these experiences in an integrated model.
Methods
Twelve women diagnosed with pSS who regularly attended the Hospital of the University of Chile participated in detailed interviews. The data were analysed using qualitative methods based on the principles of grounded theory.
Results
Selective coding identified three categories: illness experience, social interaction and psychological response. An integrated model was developed connecting these dynamic aspects and suggesting how they could lead to a life cycle crisis in cases of maladjustment. We found that problem‐solving strategies, reconstruction of identity, acceptance and a social support may prevent this life cycle crisis.
Discussion
Xerostomia and other consequences of pSS can have a profound influence on daily life. However, the severity of the consequences depends on individual experiences with the illness, social influences and the psychological responses of the patient. Physicians, dentists and other healthcare professionals can help the patient by listening to their problems and exploring solutions based on a psychological approach.