Scleroderma is known as an autoimmune disease that affects connective tissue. Scleroderma is extremely rare and can affect skin as well as other organs such as heart, kidneys, and lungs. People who suffer from scleroderma find difficulty in swallowing, dry mouth/eyes, fatigue, and weight loss. There is a large decrease in mobility to the effect on ligaments and joints. Scleroderma is not cancer and is not contagious, however there still is currently no cure. The symptoms from individual to individual can vary greatly, but if scleroderma is not properly treated, symptoms can progress to be much worse. The exact causes of scleroderma are unknown, but there are many research institutions hard at work trying to determine more accurate information about this rare disease.

 

There are two types of scleroderma: localized and systemic. Localized scleroderma is when the disease is found in only a few places and is known to be mild. In this case, internal organs are not usually affected, and the chances of the development into systemic are rare. Systemic Scleroderma is when the disease is found throughout the body and involves many of the internal organs. Systemic scleroderma causes the internal organs to function less efficiently.

 

The Scleroderma Project is dedicated to spreading awareness and helping those who suffer from this rare disease. Our website is full of information on testimonials linked to Scleroderma News, current research facilities in the U.S., and a link to donate through The Scleroderma Foundation. Feel free to browse our website and follow us at @SclerodermaProj!

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http://www.scleroderma.org/site/PageServer?pagename=patients_whatis#.WoPCeOjwY2w