Systemic Sclerosis / Scleroderma (ss)
Scleroderma is one of the autoimmune rheumatic diseases affecting the skin and other organs of the body, meaning that the body's immune system is acting abnormally. The main finding in scleroderma is thickening and tightening of the skin, and inflammation and scarring of many body parts leading to problems in the lungs, kidneys, heart, intestinal system and other areas. There is still no cure for scleroderma but effective treatments for some forms of the disease are available.
Systemic scleroderma, or sclerosis. May affect large areas of skin and organs such as the heart, lungs, or kidneys. There are two main types limited disease (CREST syndrome) and diffuse disease.
Skin symptoms of scleroderma may include:
Raynaud's phenomenon: Fingers or toes that turn blue or white in response to cold temperatures
Hair loss
Skin that is darker or lighter than normal
Stiffness, and tightness of skin of fingers, hands, forearm, and face
Small white lumps beneath the skin that sometimes ooze a white substance that looks like toothpaste
Sores (ulcers) on the fingertips or toes
Tight and mask-like skin on the face
Bone and muscle symptoms may include:
Joint pain
Numbness and pain in the feet
Pain, stiffness, and swelling of fingers and joints
Wrist pain
Breathing problems may result from scarring in the lungs and can include:
Dry cough
Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Digestive tract problems may include:
Bloating after meals
Constipation
Diarrhea
Difficulty swallowing
Esophageal reflux or heartburn
Problems controlling stools
These symptoms were mentioned in Dow Corning Breast implants Settlement >>
CREST syndrome or limited scleroderma, is one subtype of scleroderma - a condition that literally means "hardened skin."
The skin changes associated with limited scleroderma typically occur only in the lower arms and legs and sometimes the face and throat. Limited scleroderma can also affect your digestive tract.
The problems caused by limited scleroderma may be minor. Sometimes, however, the disease affects the lungs or heart, with potentially serious results. Limited scleroderma has no known cure, and treatments focus on managing symptoms and preventing serious complications.
Symptoms:
Tight, hardened skin
Raynaud's phenomenon
Red spots or lines on skin (telangiectasias)
Bumps under the skin.(calcinosis)
Swallowing difficulties
Scientific research Systemic Sclerosis >>