Scleroderma is an autoimmune condition of the connective tissue cells of the skin. This means your immune system, which usually defends you from illness, attacks healthy tissues. This causes the overproduction and buildup of collagen, the protein which helps make up your skin and connective tissues. This makes the skin unusually thick and hard to feel.
This condition can either be localised (local to the skin) or systemic (local to larger areas of skin & internal organs like the heart, lungs, and kidneys). Symptoms can start with hard patches on skin and include problems swallowing, digestive problems and changes in the appearance of fingers and toes, especially in cold conditions (Raynaud's phenomenon).
Currently, there's no direct cure for Scleroderma, however treatments can help control symptoms and stay away from complications. Managing Scleroderma often involves a team of doctors and different therapies based on the symptoms and individual health.
Scleroderma is a complicated condition without any known cause, yet many factors are believed to contribute to its development. Scientists think it's a mix of environmental and genetic factors which in some way result in the immune system to act abnormally.
The typical causes & risk factors of Scleroderma are:
Genetic Factors: Although Scleroderma isn't directly inherited, certain genetic markers can increase susceptibility. If you have a relative with Scleroderma or other autoimmune conditions, your risk of having this condition might be a little higher.
Immune System Malfunction: Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease characterised by the immune system fighting against body tissue cells. In Scleroderma this results in excess collagen production.
Environmental Triggers: Some chemicals and environmental pollutants cause Scleroderma. For example, silica dust - exposed workers and some chemicals in plastics, paints and solvents have shown higher rates of the disease.
Hormones: Women are at greater risk compared to men for developing Scleroderma, indicating a role for hormones. It usually begins during childbearing years of a woman.
Infections: Some researchers also say that viral or bacterial infections induce Scleroderma by stimulating an immune response that promotes collagen overproduction.
Scleroderma is a skin ailment but may also impact internal organs and the vascular system. The symptoms and signs associated with Scleroderma differ significantly for every person and are determined by the body areas involved. Management of the condition requires early recognition and treatment.
The key signs and symptoms associated with Scleroderma are :
The most obvious signs include hardening and tightening of the skin. This can happen on hands, face as well as arms.
In some people with Scleroderma, Raynaud's phenomenon occurs, in which fingers and toes become white or blue due to cold temperatures or stress.
Excess collagen associated with Scleroderma can also affect joints and cause pain and stiffness that prevent movement.
Scleroderma may impact the digestive tract causing acid reflux, problems swallowing and bloating. This occurs because muscles in the digestive tract may become stiff.
The lungs may also become involved and you may face shortness of breath and persistent coughing. This is often because lung tissue is scarred.
In more serious cases, Scleroderma could result in kidney problems like high blood pressure and kidney failure.
Many people with Scleroderma also state feeling exhausted and lacking energy as a result of this condition.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of Scleroderma by combining ancient Ayurvedic knowledge and the latest advances in modern medicine to achieve the desired results. The treatment plans are customised to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.
Customised Ayurvedic Medicines: Tailored herbal formulas designed to balance doshas and enhance mood stabilisation.
Yoga, Meditation, and Mindfulness: Relaxing techniques aimed at improving mental health and overall well-being.
Ayurvedic Therapies: Treatments like Panchakarma and massages that detoxify the body and help balance emotional health.
Dietary & Lifestyle Changes: Professional advice on adjusting your diet and lifestyle to achieve optimal health outcomes.
Ayurveda provides some effective natural remedies to manage the signs of Scleroderma. These medicines balance the body's doshas and promote good health by reducing inflammation, promoting immunity and increasing skin and tissue flexibility. The following are some Ayurvedic herbs and formulations for Scleroderma patients:
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): This potent herb has anti-inflammatory and anti- antioxidant properties. It reduces joint pain and stiffness, boosts metabolism and decreases stress.
Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia): Guduchi is a known immune-modulating agent that supports natural defence mechanisms and reduces inflammation.
Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia): Manjistha purifies the blood and increases circulation which helps with skin symptoms of Scleroderma.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that ease joint pain and swelling and improve skin health.
Boswellia (Boswellia serrata): Commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine for inflammations, Boswellia may help with inflammation reduction and mobility in Scleroderma patients.
Shilajit: This natural resin has rejuvenating effects and promotes immunity and vitality in patients.
Scleroderma typically strikes individuals aged 30 to 50, but can happen at any age, including childhood.
There's no cure for Scleroderma, however different treatments can help ease symptoms and improve quality of life.
No, Scleroderma isn't infectious. It's an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks bodily tissues.
The course of Scleroderma varies widely. For some it moves quickly while for others it remains stable for years.
Although diet doesn't cause Scleroderma, healthy eating may manage symptoms. A balanced Ayurvedic diet addresses the doshas and digestion problems.
Gentle exercises such as walking and yoga help with flexibility and circulation and are generally safe and recommended in Scleroderma patients.
Yes, stress can make Scleroderma symptoms worse. Stress management techniques like meditation and breathing exercises may help.
Ayurveda suggests yoga, pranayama and meditation (body exercises) to control stress and improve health.
Ayurveda can not prevent Scleroderma but can help manage its symptoms and ease the condition with holistic treatments.
Yes, Ayurveda recommends external treatments including herbal oil massages to nourish the skin, promote blood circulation and reduce stiffness and dryness.
