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What is Scleroderma

Scleroderma description. Find out what Scleroderma is and know more about it.

What is Scleroderma

Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the connective tissues in the body. It is characterized by the abnormal production of collagen, a protein that provides structure and support to various organs and tissues. This excessive collagen production leads to the hardening and thickening of the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs.


The exact cause of scleroderma is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It predominantly affects women between the ages of 30 and 50, although it can occur in men and people of all ages.


Symptoms of scleroderma can vary widely depending on the extent and location of the tissue involvement. Common symptoms include thickening and tightening of the skin, joint pain and stiffness, Raynaud's phenomenon (color changes in the fingers and toes in response to cold or stress), digestive problems, shortness of breath, and fatigue.


While there is no cure for scleroderma, treatment aims to manage symptoms and prevent complications. This may involve medications to control inflammation, improve blood flow, and suppress the immune system. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lifestyle modifications can also help improve quality of life for individuals with scleroderma.


Diseasemaps
3 answers
Scleroderma is a rare chronic Autoimmune disease that affects the skin, muscles, joints, blood vesssels, and in some cases the major internal organs like the heart lungs,liver and kidneys. It causes these parts f the bodybto become hard , thick, and tight!

Posted Mar 30, 2018 by Amy 2600
Scleroderma has many and varied features. It is not contageous and many people live with Scleroderma. There are stragies to make living with this disease easier. Some cases are more severe than others. It is an invisible disease and often, a person with Scleroderm might look perfectly healthy to others, yet they may be suffering from a myriad of symptoms. Raynaud's is one common feature that limits one's tolerance to cold weather. It is one aspect that must be addressed to remain healthy.

Posted Nov 21, 2018 by Juanita 1900

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World map of Scleroderma

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Stories of Scleroderma

SCLERODERMA STORIES
Scleroderma stories
In 1996 I was diagnosed with Systemic Diffuse Scleroderma. I had never heard of it, couldn't spell or pronounce it. Fast forward 20 years and I can say that Scleroderma has been a blessing in my life, not a curse. In 1996 I almost immediately was ho...
Scleroderma stories
I was officaily diagnosed in 2013 at age 52. My dermatoligist ran blood tests becaause I was complaining of the apperance of several red spots (telangiectasias) and Raynauds symptoms. She came back with the news that I have CREST syndrome, a conne...
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Hello, my name is Claire. I was diagnosed with extensive Localized Cutaneous Scleroderma in December of 2012 at the age of 4.5 years.    
Scleroderma stories
It took me several years before I got  diagnosed. I even had one doctor tell me that it was all in my head. For years I always had an excuse for why feeling the way that I was, stress or taking on to much. Then finally I saw the correct doctor and g...
Scleroderma stories
I was dianosed in the late 1950s with En Coup De Sabre Localized Scleroderma when I was around 5-7 years old.

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