Limited scleroderma, also known as CREST syndrome, is one subtype of scleroderma â a condition whose name means "hardened skin."
The skin changes associated with limited scleroderma typically occur only in the lower arms and legs, below the elbows and knees, and sometimes affect the face and neck. Limited scleroderma can also affect your digestive tract, heart, lungs or kidneys.
The problems caused by limited scleroderma may be minor. Sometimes, however, the disease affects the lungs or heart, with potentially serious results. Limited scleroderma has no known cure. Treatments focus on managing symptoms, preventing serious complications and improving quality of life.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
While some varieties of scleroderma occur rapidly, signs and symptoms of limited scleroderma usually develop gradually. They include:
Raynaud's phenomena. This condition occurs when small blood vessels in your fingers and toes spasm in response to cold or emotional stress, blocking the flow of blood. In most people, the skin turns white before becoming blue, cold and numb.
When circulation improves, the skin usually reddens and might throb or tingle. Raynaud's phenomena is often the first sign of limited scleroderma, but many people who have Raynaud's never develop scleroderma.
Early detection of limited scleroderma can help prevent serious complications. See your doctor if you have any indications of the condition.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
The cause isn't known, but limited scleroderma is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, in which your immune system turns against your body. The immune system appears to stimulate the production of too much collagen, a key component of connective tissue. This overproduction of collagen builds up in the skin and internal organs so that they don't function normally.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
Like other unusual and complex autoimmune disorders, limited scleroderma can be difficult to diagnose. Signs and symptoms vary widely and often resemble those of other diseases.
The diagnosis of limited scleroderma is generally made based on your signs and symptoms. During the physical exam, your doctor will look for changes in the texture, color and appearance of your skin. Tests that might aid in the diagnosis include:
Your doctor might recommend additional tests to identify lung, heart, kidney or gastrointestinal complications.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
The visible signs of limited scleroderma â tight, thick skin on your fingers, hands and face â can change your appearance; make everyday tasks, such as opening a jar or shaving, more difficult; and affect your speech. But the most serious complications tend to occur beneath your skin.
Lung damage. Limited scleroderma can cause a variety of problems with your lungs. In some cases, excess collagen collects in the tissue between the lungs' air sacs, making the lung tissue stiffer and less able to work properly.
Increased blood pressure in the arteries between your heart and lungs makes the heart work harder and eventually weakens it.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
To help boost blood flow to extremities, you might try biofeedback, a technique that teaches you to control certain body responses. Relaxation exercises or medication also may be helpful.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
To reduce Raynaud's symptoms, wear gloves or mittens outdoors when the weather is cool and indoors when you reach into the freezer. To maintain your body's core temperature when it's cool, dress in layers, and wear a hat or scarf, thermal socks, and well-fitting boots or shoes that don't cut off your circulation.
If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to quit. Nicotine constricts your blood vessels, making Raynaud's phenomena worse. Smoking also worsens heartburn.
Regular exercise can help you maintain your flexibility and strength. Ask your doctor or physical or occupational therapist what activities are right for you.
If you have difficulty swallowing, choose soft, moist foods and chew them well. To minimize acid reflux:
Excess collagen destroys sweat and oil glands, leaving your skin stiff and dry. To help soften your skin:
Have regular checkups and use special rinses or toothpastes if your dentist recommends them. If your mouth is chronically dry, try drinking more water and sucking on ice chips or hard, sugarless candy. If these measures fail, your dentist might prescribe medication to stimulate the flow of saliva.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
Because limited scleroderma can affect your appearance and your ability to perform simple tasks, your self-esteem can suffer. Depression and anxiety are common in people with the condition.
Talking with a counselor might help you cope with the changes caused by this disease. Communicating with people who have the same illness, either through online or in-person support groups, also can be helpful.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com
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