Treatment for Scleroderma

There are many treatments for scleroderma, but not all patients will need therapy. Only those at high risk for disease progression and complications will be offered treatment. The treatment approach is based on the affected organ and the type of complication. Medications that act on the patient’s immune system (immunosuppressive drugs) are often used for skin and lung fibrosis, as scleroderma is an autoimmune disease. Antifibrotic drugs can also be used separately or in combination with immunosuppressive medications.

For painful Raynaud’s, patients are advised to avoid cold exposure and stress and to keep their hands and feet warm. Lifestyle modifications can be beneficial, such as using heated gloves and socks. Additionally, patients may be advised to stop smoking, as it can constrict blood vessels and worsen symptoms.

If symptoms are severe, medications that open the blood vessels (vasodilators) can be prescribed. Vasodilators are also used to treat pulmonary hypertension, another complication related to scleroderma. Some complications, like calcinosis (chalky deposits under the skin) or gastrointestinal manifestations, are difficult to treat.

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