Scleroderma is also called systemic sclerosis. It is a group of rare diseases involving tightening and hardening of the skin. Scleroderma might also lead to problems in the internal organs, blood vessels, and digestive tract.
Scleroderma, with time, can lead to heart disease. The symptoms of heart related to scleroderma are varied. Heart problems depend on the location of scleroderma within the heart and any underlying conditions. It can cause the heart muscle to thicken and accumulate fibrous scar tissue. This can lead heart contraction and ultimately to heart failure.
Abnormal heart disease and coronary artery disease can also occur. Other heart conditions related to scleroderma can be caused due to the involvement of renal crisis and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Both can lead to heart failure from scleroderma. So, these conditions require careful evaluation and treatment.
Scleroderma Heart Symptoms
When scleroderma affects the heart, it can cause dizziness, reduce exercise tolerance, and cause shortness of breath. It can cause scarring in the lung tissue that might increase shortness of breath over time.
Scleroderma can cause the blood pressure to rise in the circulation, which goes between the lungs and heart. It is known as pulmonary hypertension. Apart from causing shortness of breath, pulmonary hypertension can also lead to fluid build-up in the feet, legs, and, at times around the heart.
If scleroderma affects your heart, heartbeats can be irregular. Scleroderma heart disease treatment is important as it can otherwise lead to heart failure.
Also read: How Cardiac Arrest is Different From Heart Attacks?
Risk Factors of Scleroderma
Anyone can get scleroderma. However, it is more common in individuals assigned female at birth. Usually, people get scleroderma at the age of 30-50. Often, black people have an earlier onset and are more likely to have lung disease or skin involvement.
A few other factors that can influence the risk of developing scleroderma are listed below.
- Environmental Triggers- Research shows that in some cases, scleroderma symptoms are triggered by exposure to certain medicines and viruses. Repeated workplace exposure to certain chemicals or harmful substances also increases the risk of scleroderma. An environmental trigger isn’t identified for a majority of the people.
- Genetics- People with certain gene changes are more likely to develop scleroderma. This explains why it runs in families with small members and why some kinds of scleroderma are more common for people of certain ethnic or racial groups.
- Immune System Conditions- Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease. It means it can occur in part as the immune system of the body starts attacking the connective tissue. People with this disease can also have symptoms of other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjogren syndrome.
Diagnosis of Scleroderma
Often, scleroderma is hard to diagnose as it develops gradually and appears in various forms. Since, some of the symptoms, such as GERD, can occur even in people without scleroderma.
A primary physician carries out a physical examination and can recommend a few tests. They might also refer you to a rheumatologist who is a specialist in connective tissue and joint diseases. An individual might also have to see a dermatologist, which is a doctor specializing in skin conditions and diseases.
A doctor might recommend the following test-
- Skin biopsy
- Looking at the skin under a dermatoscopy for checking the changes in the small capillaries and blood vessels, around the fingernails.
- Blood tests to check the level of certain antibodies.
The doctor is going to look for signs of skin thickening, shortness of breath, GERD, calcium deposits, and joint pain. They can also check for heart, lung, and gastrointestinal complications.
Scleroderma Management
Esthela Nunez Franco and many others with scleroderma find it to be challenging based on the extent and type of impact it has. Currently, there is no treatment.
But there are ways to reduce some of the negative impacts, including-
- Keep skin well-moisturized and avoid finger injuries
- Eating smaller meals for reducing the impact of GERD
- Doing proper exercise to ease stiffness
- Wrapping up warm to reduce circulatory problems
A few other tips to manage the symptoms of scleroderma are-
- Getting enough sleep
- Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, recreational drugs, and caffeine
- Staying well-hydrated
- Managing anxiety and minimizing stress
Sometimes, doctors advise people with autoimmune conditions like scleroderma to take Echinacea for boosting the immune system. However, it can be harmful and requires more research.
Moreover, there can be psychological impacts, particularly if physical changes happen.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen or treatment plan. The content is based on general knowledge and research, and may not reflect the most current medical developments or individual health needs. The blog does not endorse any specific products, treatments, or services. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
