Scleroderma is a group of rare chronic skin diseases which causes tightening and hardening of connective tissues and skin. The severity of the disease varies in different individuals. In some, it may affect only skin while in others it involves deeper structures like internal organs, blood vessels, and digestive tracts. Signs and symptoms of scleroderma differ depending upon the part or structure involved. More often women are affected as compared to men. Pathogenesis of scleroderma involves abnormally increased production of a protein named collagen which is an important part of the skin. This occurs due to defective functioning of the immune system causing hardening of the skin along with other sign and symptoms.

WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF SCLERODERMA?

The exact cause of this disease is unknown while abnormal functioning of the immune system plays an important role in the causation of Scleroderma. Some people are known to be genetically susceptible for this disorder and certain factors like exposure to the specific type of pesticides and solvents are believed commonly to trigger Scleroderma.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SCLERODERMA?

Signs and symptoms depend upon the system or organ of the body affected.

Skin- Most common symptom of this disease is hardening and tightening of the skin. This hardening is in the form of patches which may be shaped like straight lines, oval, or may cover large areas of the limbs and trunk. Location and number of patches vary according to the type of scleroderma one is suffering from. Due to the tightness of skin, it appears to be shiny and movement of the affected area is usually restricted.
Fingers or toes- Raynaud’s phenomenon is one of the earliest sign of Scleroderma. Raynaud’s phenomenon is characterized by changes in color, numbness, tingling, and pain in the fingers or toes due to the abnormal reaction of the body to cold temperature or stress. Raynaud’s phenomenon also affects the people who are not having scleroderma.
Digestive system- People with scleroderma have digestive troubles too like acid reflux and improper absorption of nutrients in the intestines.
Heart, lungs, and kidneys- In severe cases, there are patches on kidneys, lungs and blood vessels resulting in their improper functioning and may prove to be fatal.

HOW CAN SCLERODERMA BE DIAGNOSED?

It is difficult to diagnose scleroderma as there are multiple sign and symptoms mimicking other diseased conditions. A proper physical examination and medical history help a doctor to suggest a few specific blood tests which help in the diagnosis of this disease. These blood tests suggest an elevated level of antibodies. Other than this biopsy of the affected area is done which shows abnormalities in results.

WHAT COMPLICATIONS CAN BE POSED IN SCLERODERMA?

Damage to fingertips tissues due to Raynaud’s phenomenon results in the formation of ulcers. In severe cases, gangrene can occur which ultimately requires surgical amputation of the part.
Pulmonary hypertension and reduction in lung function due to scarring of lung tissues.
When kidneys are affected, it results in an elevated level of protein in urine and increased blood pressure. Also, there can occur kidney failure in severe cases.
Scarring of the heart results in arrhythmias, pericarditis, and congestive heart failure.
Much tightening of the skin around the mouth makes it difficult to open the mouth and brushing teeth properly resulting in tooth decay.
Digestive problems like acid reflux, constipation, and difficulty in swallowing can be faced by the patients.
In men, it causes erectile dysfunction and in women, it results in painful and difficult intercourse due to decreased lubrication and constriction of the opening of the vagina.

HOW CAN SCLERODERMA BE TREATED?

Modern medicine system considers Scleroderma to be incurable and aims at symptomatic relief only. Medicines are given to dilate blood vessels, reduce stomach acid, suppress the immune system, prevent infections and relieve pain. In severe cases, even amputation and lung surgery is advised.

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA FOR TREATMENT OF SCLERODERMA

Planet Ayurveda offers Sclero Care Pack which is completely Ayurvedic and free from chemicals, preservatives, and additives. All the remedies in this pack are made from best quality herbs under strict principles of Ayurveda. Herbal remedies in this pack are purely vegetarian and are not tested on animals. These remedies have proved to be very effective without causing any side effects when taken as guided by the physician.

Sclero Care Pack

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1. Ashwagandha Capsules

These are the single herb capsules prepared from a pure extract of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha). Its anti-inflammatory action prevents and treats inflammatory conditions present anywhere in the body. In scleroderma, these capsules help in enhancing the proper functioning of the immune system and eliminate toxins and harmful substances from the body. Ashwagandha capsules help in proper functioning of the heart and also improves the circulation of the blood in the body.

DOSAGE: 1 capsule twice daily with warm water.

2. Boswellia Curcumin

Two most potent anti-inflammatory herbs are used to prepare these capsules, i.e. Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (Curcuma longa). Curcumin is an amazing antioxidant herb while Boswellia is an anti-inflammatory herb. Boswellia curcumin capsules give support to the immune system and regulate its proper functioning. Blood supply to joints is increased by these capsules and structure of cartilage is also improved. These capsules maintain a healthy and systematic functioning of the cardiovascular system.

DOSAGE: 2 capsules twice daily with warm water.

3. Gotu Kola Capsules

Again these capsules are made from standardized and pure extracts of Gotukola (Centella asiatica) herb. This herb is enriched with wonderful health benefits which help in maintaining the overall functioning of the body. These capsules pacify Pitta dosha and maintain proper blood circulation in the body.

DOSAGE: 2 capsules twice daily with warm water.

4. Sanjivani Vati

These tablets are an herbal blend of various herbs like Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Vibhitaki (Terminalia bellerica), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Vacha (Acorus calamus) etc. Sanjivani Vati tablets help in treating all kinds of autoimmune disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, clears toxins from the body and treats various other health ailments.

DOSAGE: 2 tablets twice daily with warm water.

5. Gandhak Rasayan

Pure Gandhak (Purified sulphur) is used in Gandhak rasayan tablets. These tablets are have anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties. Gandhak rasayan tablets help in improving skin health, remove dead skin cells, boosts up the functioning of the immune system and relieve inflammation and its associated symptoms.

DOSAGE:2 tablets twice daily with warm water.

6. Sinhnaad Guggul

This formulation helps in pacifying mainly the vata dosha. Sinhnaad guggul is also known as Vatari guggul. This formulation is mainly used in joint pains, swelling, stiffness, inflammation and arthritis. It is also helpful in managing skin problems and abdominal disorders as well. It has purgative action also, which helps in the detoxification of the body and helps in providing relief from toxins. This herbal remedy helps in relieving pain because of guggul. It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antipruritic, demulcent and mild laxative properties.