Scleroderma – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose scleroderma through several steps because the symptoms can look like other conditions. First, a doctor examines the patient’s skin for signs such as skin thickening, induration, or telangiectasias.
Doctors often use blood tests to detect autoantibodies linked to this autoimmune disorder.
They may also order imaging, organ function checks, and pulmonary function testing to find issues in the lungs, heart, kidneys, or digestive tract. This table is a summary of some tests doctors use:
| Test Type | What It Checks For |
|---|---|
| Physical Examination | Skin changes, digital ulcers, Raynaud’s |
| Blood Tests | Autoantibodies, immune markers |
| Imaging/Function Tests | Pulmonary hypertension, interstitial lung disease, fibrosis, kidney disease, and more |
A careful evaluation is necessary to identify subtypes such as limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis, diffuse systemic sclerosis, morphea, or limited scleroderma. This process confirms the diagnosis and helps doctors develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment
Medications
Doctors use several types of medications to manage scleroderma symptoms and related complications. Immunosuppressive drugs may be prescribed to help slow skin thickening and limit organ damage by calming the immune system.
Corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used to relieve joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
For blood vessel problems such as Raynaud’s phenomenon, doctors may recommend vasodilators, including calcium channel blockers or other medications that help relax and widen blood vessels to improve circulation.
Some individuals take acid-reducing medications or antibiotics to manage digestive symptoms such as heartburn, reflux, or bacterial overgrowth in the intestines.
Vaccinations are also important to help prevent infections, particularly for people on long-term immunosuppressive therapy.
Supportive Therapies
Physical or occupational therapy helps people stay active and independent. Hand therapy reduces the risk of developing sclerodactyly, when fingers become stiff and curl.
Physical therapists guide regular exercise and stretches to improve strength, movement, and flexibility.
- Physical Therapy: Keeps muscles and joints working well.
- Occupational Therapy: Teaches new ways to do daily tasks.
Surgeries and Advanced Treatments
Doctors may recommend special procedures for people with serious symptoms that do not get better with other treatments.
Stem cell transplants or organ transplants, such as a lung or kidney transplant, are sometimes options if severe damage occurs. These treatments are usually for people with life-threatening problems who have not improved with medicines or therapy.
Lifestyle and Home Care Tips
People living with scleroderma can take practical steps at home to ease their symptoms. Physical activity keeps joints and skin flexible, which may reduce stiffness and muscle weakness.
Simple stretching and range-of-motion exercises support better mobility and may also lower joint pain or flexion contractures.
Skin care is very important. Regular use of mild lotions or creams manages dryness and puffy fingers. Sunscreen protects sensitive skin from the sun. Avoiding hot showers, harsh soaps, and household chemicals helps prevent further skin irritation.
Stopping smoking is highly recommended. Smoking narrows blood vessels, which can increase problems like Raynaud’s phenomenon and reduce blood flow to the hands and feet. Those having trouble quitting can ask their healthcare specialist for support.
People with symptoms like acid reflux, heartburn, or difficulty swallowing can eat smaller meals and avoid foods that cause discomfort. Raising the head of the bed may help keep stomach acid from moving up into the esophagus during sleep.
Over-the-counter antacids may also help relieve heartburn and protect against conditions like gastroesophageal reflux or Barrett esophagus.
During cold weather, keeping hands, feet, and body warm reduces the risk of Raynaud’s attacks. Warm mittens, boots, scarves, and layered clothes protect against sudden drops in temperature and help keep circulation steady.
These habits support comfort for those with symptoms such as myalgia, bloating, or abdominal pain.
Dealing with Scleroderma Emotionally and Practically
Managing scleroderma can be stressful, especially when facing possible health issues like kidney damage, scleroderma renal crisis, or heart failure.
Staying active and maintaining daily routines helps with emotional health and provides a sense of control. Getting enough rest and avoiding overexertion also supports well-being.
Support from family and friends makes a difference. People living with scleroderma benefit from talking about their feelings with others. Sharing experiences with people who understand, such as in-person or online support groups, can lower stress.
Emotions such as denial, anger, or frustration are normal responses to a chronic illness. Speaking with a therapist or counselor can help people learn strategies to handle these feelings.
Simple techniques, like practicing deep breathing or mindfulness, can also offer relief. Keeping up with enjoyable activities or hobbies boosts mood and helps with coping.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps You Can Take
- Write down all symptoms, even minor ones, and how long they’ve lasted.
- Make a list of every medication, vitamin, and supplement you take, including the exact doses.
- Prepare any questions or concerns to discuss. Example questions:
- What kinds of tests might be needed?
- Are there special treatments for your symptoms?
- If you have seen other specialists, bring notes or records from those visits.
| Action | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| List symptoms | Gives a full picture. |
| Note medications | Prevents interactions. |
| Prepare questions | Uses time wisely. |
| Share specialist info | Helps coordination. |
What Your Healthcare Provider Might Ask
Your healthcare provider could ask if your fingers change color in the cold, if you get frequent heartburn, or if you have trouble swallowing.
They may ask about any skin changes, like thickening or tightness. Be honest and detailed. This helps doctors or other specialists better understand your health.
