Scleroderma (systemic Sclerosis) and Sjogren’s Syndrome

Scleroderma (systemic Sclerosis)

Scleroderma is a chronic, degenerative disease that causes excess buildup of collagen – a protein chemical that strengthens connective tissue. It is then deposited throughout the skin or other organs. The collagen buildup usually appears as small white lumps under the skin that burst and become white fluid.

There are three types of scleroderma. Limited scleroderma is a localized disorder. The skin, particularly of the extremities, becomes hard and thick, and may also appear red and scaly. Although it can affect the muscles as well as the skin, the disease travels slowly and does not usually spread to the organs. Diffuse scleroderma, (also called systemic sclerosis and CREST syndrome), a generalized disorder, spreads quickly through the body and can affect many of the body’s organs. It is the most serious and potentially fatal type of scleroderma. Morphea scleroderma, or linear scleroderma, can affect different parts of the skin but does not interfere with the body’s other organ.s

People with scleroderma may experience a wide array of symptoms. Their skin may appear shiny, discolored, or hard, and may be itchy. They may feel fatigued, short of breath, pain in their joints, or numbness in their toes or fingers. They may also lose weight or experience damage to the affected organs. There is no cure for scleroderma, but there is much that can be done to alleviate many of the symptoms. Your doctor can suggest therapy for your specific ailments. You should also moisturize your skin, refrain from smoking, get good sleep, avoid strong detergents, and reduce as much stress from your life as you can. These safeguards, as well as the following list of nutrients, will help reduce the effects of scleroderma.

• Carnitine
• EPA/DHA 9 (fish oil)
• Flaxseed oil
• Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
• Glucosamine
• Glutamine
• Probiotics
• Selenium
• Vitamin B10 (para-aminobenzoic acid) – Use with caution if you have renal diseases. Stop taking immediately if anorexia results fromusage
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E

Sjogren’s Syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome is a common autoimmune disease which affects several million people in the United States. It occurs when the body’s white blood cells attack the exocrine glands that produce moisture. The eyes, mouth, nose, skin, and vagina can become dry, the voice can become hoarse, and major organs can be damaged. Some people experience milk symptoms, while others become severely ill from the disease. Like many other autoimmune diseases, Sjogren’s syndrome can be difficult to diagnose because of the wide range of symptoms as well as the similarity of these symptoms to those of other disorders.

A large majority of people with this illness are women. In 50 percent of cases, Sjogren’s syndrome occurs alone. The other 50 percent of cases affect people who also have one of the following autoimmune diseases: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, diffuse scleroderma, or dermatomyositis.

There is no cure for Sjogren’s syndrome. Care focuses on treating the symptoms. There are various moisture replacement therapies that are quite effective. Your doctor will be able to recommend the appropriate course of action for your treatment. There are also immunosuppressive medications that hinder the immune system’s function.