Does scleroderma have flare-ups?

Does scleroderma have flare-ups?

Scleroderma varies from person to person For most people, symptoms flare up and then go into remission for a period of time before flaring up again. The goal of treatment is to reduce and manage flare-ups and prevent complications.

How long does a scleroderma flare up last?

In some cases, the skin problems associated with scleroderma fade away on their own in two to five years. The type of scleroderma that affects internal organs usually worsens with time.

Why does scleroderma make you itch?

Pruritus, or itchy skin, is caused by irritation in the skin from the underlying inflammatory process associated with scleroderma. If moisturizing creams do not work, your doctor may prescribe a topical cortisone cream to rub on the skin to relieve itching. Antihistamines have been effective for some people.

Does scleroderma make you cold?

EARLY SYMPTOMS For some people, two symptoms are among the early signs of scleroderma: Fingers that become very sensitive to cold and change color with cold or emotional stress: Raynaud’s phenomenon.

What can mimic scleroderma?

However, similar features of hard and thick skin can be seen in other conditions which are often referred to as “scleroderma mimics”. These mimics include eosinophilic fasciitis, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, scleromyxedema, and scleredema among others.

What do scleroderma hands feel like?

One of the earliest signs of systemic scleroderma is Raynaud’s disease, which causes the small blood vessels in your fingers and toes to contract in response to cold temperatures or emotional distress. When this happens, your fingers or toes may turn blue or feel painful or numb.

Is heat good for scleroderma?

Hot and cold therapy. This method can help reduce inflammation and ease any pain or stiffness associated with your joint pain. Heat alters the sensation of pain and dilates blood vessels to help your body ease pain, while cold compresses help to reduce swelling.