Scleroderma, also known as System Sclerosis, is a group of diseases that cause hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissue. This occurs due to the overproduction of collagen in the skin tissues.
Diagnosis of Scleroderma may be difficult as it can affect many areas of the body (including organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys) and your doctor may need to order certain tests such as blood tests, pulmonary function tests, skin biopsy, CT scan or an echocardiogram to confirm the diagnosis.
Though there is no cure for Scleroderma, there are treatments that aim at managing the symptoms associated with the condition such as medication, procedures, therapy, self-care, and nutrition. In some cases, skin problems may resolve on their own in a few years.
Scleroderma symptoms of the skin include:
- Hardening & tightening of the skin
- Responses to cold in fingers/toes
- White lumps under the skin
- Numbness & pain
- Hair loss
- Shiny skin
Scleroderma symptoms of the digestive system include:
- Restricted movement when food passes through the digestive tract
- Malnutrition
- Acid reflux
There are other causes, complications, and ways to prevent Scleroderma.
If you would like more about this condition please contact a doctor or specialist. You can always find an online doctor to discuss Scleroderma from the comfort of your home. You can contact doctors online now at SecondOpinions.com, for your peace of mind.
