Should You Get Tested Again for Dry Syndrome Symptoms?

Q: Should You Get Tested Again for Dry Syndrome Symptoms?

Hello： For questions unrelated to this column, please consult a specialist physician.

Symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome?

Two years ago, I had symptoms of Sjögren's syndrome and had blood tests done at a rheumatology and immunology department, which came back normal.
Recently, I have been experiencing these symptoms again.
Should I get blood tests done again, or should I consult a specialist based on my symptoms? Thank you.

Han, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/20

Dr. Jian Yingxiu reply Rare Disease

Hello: For questions unrelated to this column, please consult a specialist physician.

Reply Date: 2023/06/20

More Info

When considering whether to get tested again for symptoms of dry syndrome, it is essential to understand the nature of the condition, its symptoms, and the implications of your previous test results. Dry syndrome, often referred to as Sjögren's syndrome, is an autoimmune disorder characterized primarily by dry eyes and dry mouth, but it can also affect other organs and systems in the body.
If you previously underwent testing for Sjögren's syndrome and the results were normal, it is possible that your symptoms may not be related to this specific condition. However, autoimmune diseases can be complex and may present differently over time. Symptoms can fluctuate, and new symptoms can emerge, which may warrant further investigation.

Here are some considerations to help you decide whether to seek further testing or consult a specialist:
1. Symptom Evaluation: Assess the severity and frequency of your current symptoms. If you are experiencing significant discomfort or if your symptoms are impacting your daily life, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Symptoms of dry syndrome can include persistent dry eyes, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, fatigue, joint pain, and swelling.

2. Time Since Last Test: If a considerable amount of time has passed since your last evaluation (for example, more than a year), it may be prudent to get retested. Autoimmune conditions can evolve, and new tests may provide updated insights into your health status.

3. Consulting a Specialist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is beneficial to consult a rheumatologist or an immunologist who specializes in autoimmune disorders. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and may recommend specific tests, such as blood tests for autoantibodies (e.g., anti-Ro/SSA, anti-La/SSB), salivary gland function tests, or even a biopsy of the salivary glands if necessary.

4. Comprehensive Assessment: A specialist can also help rule out other conditions that may mimic dry syndrome, such as medications side effects, other autoimmune diseases (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), or even non-autoimmune conditions.
5. Monitoring and Follow-Up: If you decide to see a specialist, they may recommend a follow-up plan to monitor your symptoms and any changes in your condition over time. This could include regular check-ups and possibly additional tests if your symptoms evolve.

6. Quality of Life Considerations: Ultimately, the decision to seek further testing should also consider your quality of life. If your symptoms are causing distress or affecting your ability to function, it is worth pursuing further evaluation.

In summary, if you are experiencing new or worsening symptoms associated with dry syndrome, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can help determine whether further testing is necessary and guide you on the best course of action based on your individual health needs. Remember, early diagnosis and management of autoimmune conditions can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Do I Need to Retest After a Negative Saliva HIV Test?

Hello doctor, it has been five and a half months since my last high-risk behavior. I used a saliva rapid test, and it came back negative. I would like to ask if I still need to get retested. If I do get retested and the saliva rapid test is negative again, can I feel assured?

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: To assess the quality of a rapid test, I generally recommend that if you are very concerned, you should consider a blood test. Wishing you good health.

Should You Get Tested Again for Syphilis After New Symptoms?

It has been five months since my last sexual encounter, and I tested negative for HIV and syphilis at the hospital. However, two months after the test, I noticed red spots on my body. Should I get tested again? I'm feeling very anxious about this.

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Yes, it's important to get tested for HIV as well. Wishing you good health. Please practice safe sex.

Should You See a Doctor Again After 9 Days of Positive COVID Test?

Hello, it is now the period when isolation can be lifted, but I am still testing positive on the rapid test and experiencing symptoms such as phlegm and nasal congestion (especially severe at night). I have also been experiencing headaches, dizziness, and nausea over the past two...

Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine
Hello everyone, many patients are testing negative after about 10 days, so there's no need to worry. If you still have symptoms, you can seek medical attention and get medication. Thank you for your question.

Do I Need Further HIV Testing After a Negative Result?

On April 6th, I had a high-risk exposure. On July 1st, I performed an HIV self-test and received a negative result, which was exactly on the first day after 12 weeks. I would like to know if I need to get tested again for HIV infection. I have a pre-existing issue with itchy rash...

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine
Hello! Based on your description, I recommend that you undergo another HIV screening. The rash seems to be a long-term issue, so I suggest you visit a dermatologist for evaluation. Additionally, it would be beneficial for your skin recovery to quit smoking as soon as possible. Th...