What are the symptoms of systemic scleroderma?

Systemic scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and progression of the disease, but some common symptoms include:

Skin changes:

- Thickening and hardening of the skin (scleroderma)

- Skin tightness, especially in the hands and face

- Raynaud's phenomenon: episodes of color changes in the fingers or toes due to blood vessel constriction, typically triggered by cold temperatures or stress

- Skin discoloration, such as patches of red, purple, or white skin

Joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness:

- Joint pain and swelling in the hands, feet, knees, and elbows

- Stiffness in the joints, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity

Gastrointestinal problems:

- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) due to involvement of the esophagus

- Heartburn and acid reflux

- Bloating, constipation, or diarrhea

Lung involvement:

- Shortness of breath, especially with exertion

- Dry cough

- Interstitial lung disease, characterized by scarring and thickening of the lung tissue

Cardiovascular issues:

- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)

- High blood pressure (hypertension)

- Chest pain or discomfort

- Digital ulcers, which are painful open sores on the fingertips or toes

Kidney involvement:

- Swelling in the hands, feet, and face (edema)

- Frequent urination, especially at night

- Protein in the urine (proteinuria)

Fatigue and weakness:

- Extreme tiredness and lack of energy

- Difficulty performing daily activities

Other less common symptoms may include:

- Muscle weakness

- Nerve damage leading to numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet (neuropathy)

- Weight loss

- Dry mouth and eyes (Sjögren's syndrome)

- Fever

- Skin thickening in the face, resulting in a mask-like appearance