Scleroderma

Scleroderma is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. Affecting primarily the skin and connective tissues, it causes the body to produce too much collagen and causes thickening and hardening of the skin, as well as damage to internal organs. Symptoms may include tightness and swelling of the skin, numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes, and difficulty with digestion. Scleroderma is a chronic, long-term condition with no known cure, but treatments are available to manage the symptoms. Treatments may include medications to reduce inflammation, physical or occupational therapy, or the use of light therapy to reduce joint pain and inflammation. With proper treatment, many individuals living with scleroderma lead active, healthy lives.