Hi, I think partly it can be genetic.
My mother had dry mouth problems for about 4 years and then went on to being diagnosed with RA. I was diagnosed with sjogrens and was told by my rheumatologist that I have the gene for type 1 diabetes and that it’s the same gene for sjogrens.
One of my daughters has type 1 diabetes and had blood test results with extremely high markers for RA. They may also investigate her for ms as they also have concerns with symptoms she has that are indicative of this.
My aunt ( my mothers) sister also has RA.
So I’m sure that genetics plays a part in sjogrens.
Take care