Signs & Symptoms of Scleroderma of the Gastrointestinal Tract

Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease characterized by the excessive growth of collagen on tissues. This extra collagen leads to the hardening of the skin and possible organ damage. Scleroderma can affect different parts of the body such as the joints and muscles. In addition, this condition can cause complications in the digestive tract, wherein sufferers experience a host of gastrointestinal discomforts.

Constipation

• Scleroderma can cause scar tissue to develop in the lower gastrointestinal tract. This scar tissue may trigger an intestinal blockage, which prevents frequent or normal bowel activity. Certain steps can help alleviate intestinal blockages, such as taking medications or undergoing a medical procedure to remove the blockage. But if left untreated, constipation due to scleroderma can worsen and lead to further complications such as bowel tears.

Diarrhea and Digestion

• This medical condition can also affect the way your body absorbs nutrients and digests foods. In the case of scleroderma, food may pass through the intestinal tract at a slower rate. What's more, scar tissues can impede your body's ability to absorb fat in the lower digestive tract. Both situations can trigger a higher amount of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, which can bring on other problems, such as loose stools.

GERD, or Acid Reflux

• Unfortunately, scleroderma can also affect the muscles of your esophagus and throat. Scarring in this area can significantly impact your ability to swallow, and may likely trigger other gastrointestinal discomforts such as GERD, or acid reflux disease. Gastrointestinal reflux disease refers to the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Indicators of reflux disease include heartburn, nausea, coughing, sore throat and regurgitation. And because esophageal scarring interferes with the ability to swallow properly, there's a tendency to eat less, which results in weight loss.