Systemic sclerosis – causes, symptoms, treatment

Systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma, is a rare systemic disease characterized by hardening of the skin that can affect internal organs. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, types and treatment of systemic sclerosis to provide comprehensive knowledge on the subject.

What is systemic sclerosis?

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease, which means the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. As a result of this attack, excessive deposition of connective tissue occurs, which leads to hardening of the skin and changes in internal organs. This disease is very diverse in terms of symptoms and course, which makes it extremely difficult to diagnose and treat.

Systemic sclerosis – causes

Unfortunately, the causes of systemic sclerosis are not yet fully understood. However, it is known that there is a certain genetic predisposition to the disease, which means that people with a family history of systemic sclerosis are more likely to develop it. Additionally, there are environmental factors that can increase the risk of disease, such as exposure to chemicals or viral infections.

Systemic sclerosis – symptoms

The symptoms of systemic sclerosis can vary greatly and depend on the areas of the body that are most affected by the disease. However, some of the most common symptoms are:

• Hardening of the skin, especially on the hands, face and neck
• Joint and muscle pain
• Digestive problems such as heartburn and difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty breathing due to changes in the lungs
• Kidney damage
• Heart problems

Types of systemic sclerosis

There are different types of systemic sclerosis, but the two main types are localized scleroderma and diffuse scleroderma. Localized scleroderma is characterized by hardening of the skin primarily on the arms, face, and neck, while widespread scleroderma can affect many different areas of the body, including internal organs.

What is the treatment for systemic sclerosis?

The treatment of systemic sclerosis is complicated and depends on individual symptoms and the stage of the disease. Treatment may include immunosuppressive drugs to control autoimmune reactions, and medications to relieve symptoms such as pain and digestive problems.

Additionally, physical therapy and rehabilitation can be helpful in maintaining joint and muscle mobility. In some cases, when internal organs are severely affected, surgical treatment, such as an organ transplant, may be necessary.

Your suggestions

If you suspect you have systemic sclerosis or are experiencing symptoms, consult your doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life and control the progression of the disease.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about systemic sclerosis, we recommend reading the following articles:

• “Systemic sclerosis: What you should know” – an article containing information about the causes, symptoms and treatment of systemic sclerosis.
• “Living with systemic sclerosis: Advice and support” – an article that discusses strategies for coping with the disease and available sources of support for patients.
• “News in the treatment of systemic sclerosis” – an article presenting the latest research and therapies related to systemic sclerosis.

Systemic sclerosis is a difficult disease, but with appropriate medical care and support, its course can be effectively managed. Don’t hesitate to seek help and information to understand this condition and how best to care for it.