When Your Skin Hardens: Understanding Scleroderma

The skin and connective tissues get tighter and harder due to the chronic autoimmune illness scleroderma. The body's internal organs, muscles, blood vessels, skin, and blood vessels can all be impacted.

What is Scleroderma?

Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune condition that causes the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissue underneath it. The condition can also impact underlying blood vessels and organs. Affected individuals may exhibit Raynaud’s phenomenon - a condition where the fingers and toes may become numb and cool and turn white or blue in color as a response to cold temperatures or other stressors.

Symptoms of Scleroderma

Thickened skin is one of the signs and symptoms of Scleroderma; it especially affects the hands and fingers, though it can occur elsewhere. Colour changes in the fingers and toes caused by reduced blood flow brought on by stress or cold are common symptom of Raynaud's phenomenon. Another common symptom is fatigue, which many people experience as a chronic lack of strength and energy. Specific symptoms of scleroderma may be caused by the involvement of internal organs, including the kidneys, heart, digestive tract, and lungs.

Causes of Scleroderma

Scleroderma is thought to be caused by a confluence of immunological, environmental, and genetic elements, while the precise origin is unknown. The condition's hallmark symptoms are believed to be brought on by an aberrant immune response that causes inflammation and excessive collagen synthesis.

Addressing Scleroderma

The goals of scleroderma treatment are to control symptoms and avoid consequences. This could involve using drugs to lower inflammation, enhance blood flow, and weaken the immune system. Additional therapies that can help control symptoms and enhance quality of life include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Expert Scleroderma Care in St. Pete & Bradenton: Schedule Your Consultation Today!

Concerned about scleroderma? Seek expert care and support in St. Pete or Bradenton. Contact us now to schedule a consultation and explore personalized treatment options for managing scleroderma effectively.

Disclaimer:
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