Scleroderma Treatment in Faisalabad

What is scleroderma?

Scleroderma is an autoimmune connective tissue disease in which the body produces too much collagen, leading to hardening and tightening of the skin. In some people it also affects the blood vessels, joints and internal organs such as the lungs, digestive system and kidneys.

Scleroderma varies widely from person to person. Some people have a milder form affecting mainly the skin, while others have more widespread disease. Because it can involve internal organs, it is best managed by a rheumatologist who can monitor the whole body.

Common symptoms

The symptoms of scleroderma depend on which parts of the body are affected, but often include:

• Tight, hardened or thickened skin, especially on the fingers and hands • Raynaud's phenomenon — fingers turning white or blue in the cold • Swollen or painful joints • Digestive problems such as heartburn or difficulty swallowing • In more serious cases, breathlessness from lung involvement

Raynaud's phenomenon and skin tightening are often the earliest clues that lead to a diagnosis.

Diagnosis and treatment in Faisalabad

Dr. Naseem Arshad diagnoses scleroderma through examination combined with blood tests (including specific antibodies) and, where needed, tests to check the lungs, heart and other organs. Ongoing monitoring is an important part of care, so that any organ involvement is picked up early.

There is no single cure, but treatment can control symptoms and protect the organs:

• Medicines to improve blood flow and manage Raynaud's phenomenon • Treatment to protect the digestive system and other affected organs • Immunosuppressive medicines for more active disease • Regular monitoring of the lungs, heart and kidneys

With careful specialist management, many people with scleroderma keep their symptoms under control and protect their organs.