Overview

Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin and blood vessels. It can also affect organs such as the kidneys, heart, esophagus, and lungs.

Scleroderma causes the skin to harden and get tight. Your joints may get stiff and swollen. If this disease affects the organs, it is called systemic sclerosis and it can cause more serious problems. Scleroderma that affects your lungs may make it hard for you to breathe. You may have heart failure if scleroderma affects the blood vessels that lead from the heart to your lungs.

Scleroderma cannot be cured, but in some cases the condition may improve over time. Systemic sclerosis increases the risk of heart, kidney, and lung failure, which can lead to death. The type of treatment depends on whether the disease affects just your skin or other parts of your body. You will have a team of health professionals to help you. These may include a doctor, physiotherapist, psychologist, dentist, and pharmacist. You will probably need medicines to treat symptoms and to prevent long-term problems.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you have any problems with your medicine.
• If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• If you have trouble using your hands, ask your doctor or physiotherapist about ways of doing things or devices that can help you. You can use Velcro instead of buttons on your clothes and get items such as hairbrushes with special handles.
• Check your blood pressure every day. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if it is higher than normal.
• Stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines. Get influenza (flu) and pneumococcal vaccines. These vaccines can prevent lung infections.
• Use sunscreen when you go outside in the summer to prevent skin damage.
• Get regular exercise. This can help you stay strong and flexible.
• Brush and floss your teeth every day. Get regular dental care to prevent serious dental problems.
• Talk to your doctor if you have sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction or pain with intercourse.
• Share your feelings. Stress and tension affect our emotions. By expressing your feelings to others, you may be able to understand and cope with them.
• Join a support group. Talking about a problem with your partner, a good friend, or other people with similar problems is a valuable way to reduce tension and stress.
• Get help if you need it. Discuss your concerns with your doctor, counsellor, or other health professional.