5 Things to Know About Scleroderma

Andres Jimenez

August 14, 2025

7 MINS READ

Scleroderma is a complex autoimmune condition that can affect your skin, connective tissues, and internal organs. If you or someone you care about has recently been diagnosed, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. This article covers five essential things to know about scleroderma, including what it is, how it’s diagnosed, proven management strategies, and more.

#1: What Is Scleroderma?

Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects your connective tissues, leading to hardening and tightening of the skin and, in some cases, internal organs. The name “scleroderma” comes from the Greek words “sclero” (hard) and “derma” (skin), reflecting one of the most visible symptoms: thickened, stiff skin. However, scleroderma is much more than a skin condition—it can impact blood vessels, muscles, joints, and organs such as your lungs, heart, kidneys, and digestive tract.

There are two main types of scleroderma: localized and systemic. Localized scleroderma mainly affects your skin and sometimes the underlying muscles and bones, but it does not involve internal organs. This type is more common in children and often appears as patches or streaks of hardened skin. Systemic scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis, can affect not only your skin but also your internal organs and blood vessels. Systemic scleroderma is further divided into limited and diffuse forms, depending on the extent and speed of skin and organ involvement.

Common symptoms of scleroderma include thickened or tight skin, especially on your fingers, hands, and face. You may also experience Raynaud’s phenomenon, where your fingers and toes turn white or blue in response to cold or stress due to blood vessel narrowing. Other symptoms can include joint pain, muscle weakness, digestive issues (such as acid reflux or difficulty swallowing), and fatigue. In more severe cases, scleroderma can lead to complications involving your lungs, heart, or kidneys.

Anyone can develop scleroderma, but it is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 30 and 50. Genetics, environmental exposures, and certain immune system factors may increase your risk, but the exact cause remains unknown. Early recognition of symptoms and prompt medical attention are important for managing the condition and minimizing complications.

#2: Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of scleroderma is not fully understood, but it is generally considered an autoimmune disorder. This means your immune system, which normally protects you from infections, mistakenly attacks your own tissues, leading to inflammation and an overproduction of collagen—a protein that helps form your skin and connective tissues. The excess collagen causes the thickening and hardening characteristic of scleroderma.

Several factors may contribute to the development of scleroderma:

Autoimmune Factors: Scleroderma is classified as an autoimmune disease because your immune system plays a central role in its development. Researchers believe that immune system dysfunction triggers inflammation and abnormal collagen production.
Genetics: While scleroderma is not directly inherited, having a family history of autoimmune diseases may increase your risk. Certain genetic markers have been linked to a higher likelihood of developing scleroderma.
Environmental Triggers: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as silica dust, solvents, or other chemicals, may increase your risk, especially if you are genetically predisposed.
Hormonal Factors: Scleroderma is more common in women, suggesting that hormones may play a role in its development.

Key risk factors for scleroderma include being female, being between the ages of 30 and 50, having a family history of autoimmune diseases, and exposure to specific environmental triggers. While these factors can increase your risk, scleroderma can occur in anyone, and most people with risk factors do not develop the disease.

#3: How Scleroderma Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing scleroderma can be challenging because its symptoms often overlap with those of other conditions. If you notice persistent skin changes, joint pain, or symptoms like Raynaud’s phenomenon, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

Your doctor will typically begin with a detailed medical history and physical examination, looking for signs such as thickened or tight skin, changes in skin color, and swelling in your fingers or hands. They may also ask about symptoms affecting your digestive system, breathing, or circulation.

Several diagnostic tests can help confirm scleroderma and assess its severity:

Blood Tests: These can detect specific autoantibodies commonly found in people with scleroderma, such as antinuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-centromere antibodies, and anti-topoisomerase I (Scl-70) antibodies.
Imaging Tests: Tests like X-rays, echocardiograms, or CT scans can help evaluate the extent of organ involvement, particularly in your lungs, heart, or gastrointestinal tract.
Skin Biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of skin may be taken and examined under a microscope to look for characteristic changes associated with scleroderma.
Pulmonary Function Tests: These assess how well your lungs are working and can help detect early signs of lung involvement.

Early diagnosis is crucial because it allows for more effective management of symptoms and helps prevent or minimize complications. Regular monitoring is also important, as scleroderma can progress or affect different organs over time. Your healthcare team may recommend ongoing check-ups and tests to track your condition and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

#4: Proven Ways to Help Manage Scleroderma

While there is currently no cure for scleroderma, a variety of proven strategies can help you manage symptoms, improve your quality of life, and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment plans are highly individualized and often involve a team of specialists, including rheumatologists, dermatologists, pulmonologists, and physical therapists.

Medications and Therapies: Your doctor may prescribe medications to address specific symptoms or slow disease progression. These can include immunosuppressants to reduce immune system activity, anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain and swelling, and medications to improve blood flow or treat digestive symptoms. In some cases, drugs that target fibrosis (scarring) are used to help limit tissue hardening.

Physical and Occupational Therapy: Physical therapy can help maintain joint flexibility, improve mobility, and reduce stiffness. Occupational therapy focuses on helping you adapt daily activities to accommodate changes in hand function or mobility. Regular exercise, tailored to your abilities, can also support overall health and well-being.

Skin Care Routines and Lifestyle Adjustments: Taking care of your skin is essential. Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers to prevent dryness and cracking. Protect your skin from cold and injury, especially if you experience Raynaud’s phenomenon. Wearing gloves and warm clothing can help prevent flare-ups. Avoid smoking, as it can worsen blood vessel problems and increase the risk of complications.

The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Care Team: Because scleroderma can affect many parts of your body, working with a team of healthcare professionals ensures you receive comprehensive care. Your team may include specialists in rheumatology, dermatology, pulmonology, cardiology, and gastroenterology, as well as physical and occupational therapists.

Support Resources for Mental and Emotional Health: Living with a chronic condition like scleroderma can be emotionally challenging. Support groups, counseling, and mental health resources can help you cope with stress, anxiety, or depression. Connecting with others who understand your experience can provide valuable encouragement and practical advice.

By working closely with your healthcare team and making informed lifestyle choices, you can take proactive steps to manage scleroderma and maintain your quality of life. Always consult your doctor before starting any new treatment or therapy, and remember that ongoing communication is key to effective management.

#5: What to Know About Light Therapy and Scleroderma

Light Therapy refers to the use of specific wavelengths of light—such as Red Light Therapy, Near-Infrared Light Therapy, Blue Light Therapy, and Amber Light Therapy—to support various aspects of skin appearance.

Current research on Light Therapy and scleroderma is limited and largely experimental. Some studies have explored whether Light Therapy might help with skin flexibility or discomfort, but there is no strong evidence to support its effectiveness for scleroderma. Most importantly, Red Light Therapy and other forms of Light Therapy are not cures or treatments for scleroderma.

If you’re considering Light Therapy as a supportive option, always consult your healthcare provider first. Remember, proven medical treatments and ongoing care from your healthcare team remain the most reliable ways to manage scleroderma.

Conclusion

Scleroderma is a complex condition that requires understanding, proactive management, and support from a knowledgeable healthcare team. While Light Therapy, including Red Light Therapy, is sometimes discussed in relation to scleroderma, it is not a cure or treatment for this condition. Always rely on evidence-based medical care and consult your healthcare provider about any new therapies or questions you may have.

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