Systemic Sclerosis Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms and diagnosis of systemic sclerosis are described in this article. There are several different types of systemic sclerosis. You should understand how each type of disease differs from the next. In addition, you should know what to do to prevent or slow down the progression of the disease.

Symptoms

Managing Systemic sclerosis symptoms can be challenging. Many participants reported difficulty accessing medical care, particularly due to a lack of education and understanding of the disorder. One participant even had to go to the emergency room for seemingly minor problems. Other participants noted that general practitioners seemed hesitant to treat the condition. And they often experienced delays in diagnosis that could take more than a year. However, the condition can be managed effectively with lifestyle changes, and medications once diagnosed.

The initial symptoms of Systemic sclerosis include diffuse swelling of the hands and fingers, which can develop into Raynaud's phenomenon. Other symptoms include gastrointestinal disturbances and respiratory complaints. The disease can also affect internal organs, such as the heart, kidneys, and lungs.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of systemic scleroderma (SSc) requires the use of specific criteria. These criteria have been developed by the European League Against Rheumatism and the American College of Rheumatology. When combined, they give a composite score. The patient's score must be greater than a certain threshold to be diagnosed with definite SSc. Other diagnostic criteria, such as pulmonary function tests, chest CT, and echocardiography, are also useful in confirming the diagnosis of systemic sclerosis.

The clinical findings of systemic sclerosis vary, ranging from widespread skin damage and gastrointestinal problems to severe, rapidly progressive visceral involvement. In addition to skin symptoms, patients may also develop interstitial lung disease, a disorder of the tissue that surrounds the air sacs. Another major complication of systemic sclerosis is scleroderma renal crisis, a serious condition that can require immediate hospitalization. While there is no cure for systemic sclerosis, active patients with regular checkups can often improve their scarring and condition.

Treatment

Systemic sclerosis is when your connective tissues lose their elasticity and become scarred. It can affect the lungs, kidneys, and other organs in your body. People with this condition can experience severe symptoms like shortness of breath and pulmonary hypertension. The disease is also associated with high blood pressure and other health problems. Those who have it should consult a physician to determine the appropriate treatment. Understanding the symptoms of the disease can help you choose the right treatment.

Depending on the symptoms, you may be prescribed medication to help manage your disease. This treatment may include taking anti-inflammatory medicines or other forms of therapy. Your healthcare provider may prescribe creams or lotions for dry, flaky skin. You should also see a cardiologist if you have cardiac problems. If your symptoms are more severe, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to control your immune response. In addition, exercise is important for maintaining your health and coping with systemic sclerosis. Exercising can improve your mood and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Prevention

Preventing the disease can be an important part of the treatment strategy for systemic sclerosis. Treatment options include medications such as cyclophosphamide, imatinib, and pulmonary vasodilators. Treatment of systemic sclerosis should begin at an early age, as early treatment can prevent the disease from progressing to other organs and affecting the quality of life of those affected.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic connective tissue disease characterized by excessive collagen deposition in the skin and internal organs. This condition causes various symptoms, including Raynaud's phenomenon, digital ulcers, and pulmonary hypertension. In recent years, advances in medical care have allowed the treatment of some of the most common symptoms and complications of SSc. Medications and lifestyle changes have made the disease much more manageable.