Scleroderma

What is Scleroderma? 

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Scleroderma is a rare, chronic autoimmune disease that causes the hardening, thickening, and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. In systemic forms, it can also affect internal organs such as the lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive system, which may lead to serious complications if left untreated.
 

There are two main types of scleroderma:

1. Localized Scleroderma – Mainly affects the skin and underlying tissues, usually in patches. It rarely involves internal organs.

2. Systemic Sclerosis – Can affect both skin and internal organs, making it more severe and requiring careful management.
    

Early recognition and timely scleroderma diagnosis and treatment are essential to manage symptoms, prevent organ damage, and maintain quality of life.

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Common Symptoms of Scleroderma

Symptoms can vary depending on the type and organs affected, but commonly include:

• Skin Changes: Thickened, hardened, or shiny skin, especially on the hands, fingers, and face

• Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Fingers or toes turn white, blue, or red when exposed to cold or stress

• Joint Pain or Stiffness: Often affects hands, wrists, and knees

• Digestive Issues: Heartburn, difficulty swallowing, or bloating

• Respiratory Symptoms: Shortness of breath if lungs are involved

• Fatigue and Weakness: Common across all forms of scleroderma

​Because scleroderma can affect multiple organs, early evaluation at the best scleroderma treatment center can help prevent complications and guide personalized therapy.

 

Who Is Most Affected?

• Women are more frequently affected than men, typically between ages 30–50

• Scleroderma can occur in individuals of all races and ages, though prevalence may vary

• Genetic predisposition and immune system irregularities may increase risk
   

Diagnosis of Scleroderma

Accurate scleroderma diagnosis and treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation:

• Medical History & Physical Exam: Evaluates skin changes, joint mobility, and organ involvement

• Blood Tests: Autoantibodies such as ANA, anti-Scl-70, or anticentromere antibodies indicate systemic sclerosis

• Imaging & Organ Assessment: Echocardiogram, chest X-ray, or CT scans assess lungs, heart, and kidneys

• Specialized Testing: Pulmonary function tests or endoscopy for digestive involvement

Early and precise diagnosis ensures timely scleroderma treatment in Orlando and helps prevent long-term organ damage.

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Treatment and Management

While there is no cure for scleroderma, treatments focus on managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and preventing organ complications:

• Medications:

  • Immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate, mycophenolate) to reduce immune activity

  • Vasodilators for Raynaud’s phenomenon and improved circulation

  • Proton pump inhibitors or antacids to manage digestive symptoms
     

• Physical & Skin Care:

  • Daily moisturizers to prevent dryness and cracking

  • Physical therapy to maintain joint flexibility and mobility
     

• Lifestyle Measures:

  • Protect hands from cold and trauma

  • Eat small, soft meals to ease swallowing

  • Stay active with gentle exercises
     

• Regular Monitoring
   

Follow-ups at a best scleroderma treatment center or with a scleroderma specialist ensure organ function is tracked and treatment is adjusted as needed

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Living with Scleroderma

• Wear gloves and protective clothing in cold weather

• Moisturize skin daily and avoid harsh soaps

• Maintain a balanced diet and monitor digestive health

• Stay active with gentle, low-impact exercise

• Keep regular appointments for scleroderma diagnosis and treatment

• Keep regular checkups to monitor organ function
   

Frequently Asked Questions 
 

1. What causes scleroderma?
Scleroderma occurs when the immune system attacks healthy connective tissues. Genetic susceptibility and environmental factors may also play a role.
 

2. What are the early signs of scleroderma?
Early symptoms often include thickened or tight skin, Raynaud’s phenomenon, joint stiffness, and unexplained fatigue. Early evaluation ensures timely scleroderma treatment in Orlando.
 

3. How is scleroderma diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, blood tests for autoantibodies, imaging studies, and sometimes organ-specific assessments. A scleroderma specialist guides diagnosis and treatment planning.
 

4. Can scleroderma affect internal organs?
Yes. Systemic scleroderma may involve the lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive tract. Regular monitoring at a best scleroderma treatment center helps prevent serious complications.
 

5. How is scleroderma treated?
Treatment includes immunosuppressive medications, vasodilators, lifestyle modifications, and physical therapy. Coordinated care by experts ensures symptom management and protects organ health.

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