Systemic Scleroderma

OK. The skin of the face becomes very dense, the face becomes mask-like. Gradually, the swelling spreads to the torso and lower extremities; with total damage, the patient takes on the appearance of a mummy. The color of the skin changes, it becomes mottled due to areas without pigment, and the vascular pattern intensifies. After some time, the vessels are affected according to the type of Raynaud's disease: the patient experiences a feeling of numbness, goosebumps appear on the hands. Spasms of the arteries occur periodically, which is manifested by pale skin and coldness of the extremities. At the end of the spasm, the person experiences pain and heat in the fingers. In addition to the skin, the bones of the nail phalanges are affected, which leads to deformation and shortening of the fingers. Inflammation of the joints is possible, which in its course resembles rheumatoid arthritis, but, unlike it, does not cause destruction of the articular surfaces of the bones. Of the internal organs, the esophagus is most often affected by the type of esophagitis; the patient complains of indigestion, burning pain behind the sternum in the upper third. In severe cases of the disease, damage to the renal vessels occurs and nephropathy develops. Its main symptoms are: decreased daily urine output, high blood pressure, protein and red blood cells in the urine. The diagnosis can be confirmed by the detection of an increased content of hydroxyproline in the urine and calcium deposition in the soft tissues, visible on an x-ray.

The diagnosis of systemic scleroderma can be difficult because its symptoms can resemble other diseases. Circulatory disorders and digestive disorders can lead to a deterioration in the patient’s general condition and threaten his life. Treatment for systemic scleroderma is aimed at reducing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease.

Treatment may include the use of immunosuppressive drugs, steroids, and drugs aimed at reducing blood flow and vascular tone. Physical therapy and exercises are aimed at maintaining joint movement and flexibility, as well as relieving tension and improving blood flow. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct bone deformities.

It is important to note that systemic scleroderma is a chronic disease and does not have a complete cure. However, with proper treatment and care, the patient's quality of life can be significantly improved and the progression of the disease can be slowed down. It is also important to see your doctor regularly and follow his recommendations for treatment and self-care. To reduce the risk of developing systemic scleroderma, it is recommended to put your lifestyle in order, including exercise, eating right, avoiding stressful situations and negative effects on the body.