Scleroderma
Scleroderma represents a group of rare diseases that involve the tightening and hardening of the skin and connective tissues. Connective tissues are the frame and body of the body
In some people, scleroderma affects only the skin However, in most cases, the disease affects other parts besides the skin, such as blood vessels, internal organs and the digestive system Symptoms vary depending on the damaged structure
Scleroma is more common in women and most often develops between the ages of 30-50 Scleroderma is incurable, although various treatments can relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Scleroderma is caused by excess production and accumulation of collagen in the body Collagen is the fibrous form of protein that makes up the body's connective tissues, including the skin
Although doctors do not know what causes abnormal collagen production, it is believed that the immune system plays a role in the development of the disease. For unknown reasons, the immune system attacks its own body, developing inflammation, resulting in an overproduction of collagen.
The symptoms of scleroderma vary according to the parts of the body affected:
- Skin Most people with scleroderma have areas of hardening and tightening of the skin These spots may have an oval or straight line shape The number, location and size of the spots are different depending on the form of scleroderma The skin may have a glossy color due to stretching Movement of the affected area is sometimes limited
- fingers or toes One of the first signs of scleroderma is an exaggerated response to cold temperatures and emotional stress, leading to numbness, pain, and discoloration in the fingers and toes. This immobility is called Raynaud's phenomenon and often occurs in people who do not have scleroderma.
- Digestive system Along with acid reflux, which damages the part of the esophagus near the stomach, people with scleroderma also have problems absorbing nutrients. The condition is caused by improper movement of the intestinal muscles
- Heart, lungs and kidneys Rarely, scleroderma affects the functions of the heart, lungs, and kidneys These problems can be life-threatening
