...less medical jargon in a 'Quick Glance' format!
CREST Syndrome, also known as Scleroderma is a widespread connective tissue disease that involves changes in the skin, blood vessels, muscles, and internal organs.
Symptoms:
Blanching, blueness, or redness of fingers and toes in response to heat and cold
Pain, stiffness, and swelling of fingers and joints
Skin thickening and shiny hands and forearm
Skin is hard
Tight and mask-like facial skin
Ulcerations on fingertips or toes
Esophageal reflux or heartburn
Difficulty swallowing
Bloating after meals
Weight loss
Diarrhea
Constipation
Shortness of breath
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
Wrist pain
Wheezing
Skin, abnormally dark or light
Joint pain
Hair loss
Eye burning, itching, and discharge
Causes:
The cause is unknown. Persons with this condition have a build up of a substance called collagen in the skin and other organs. This build up leads to the symptoms associated with the disease.
The disease usually affects people 30 to 50 years old. Women are affected more often than men. Risk factors are occupational exposure to silica dust and polyvinyl chloride.
Other treatments for specific symptoms may include:
.......Antacids for heartburn .......Medications to treat Raynaud's phenomenon
.......Blood pressure medications for high blood pressure or kidney problems
.......Medicines to improve breathing
Treatment usually includes a combination of physical therapy and skin and joint protection techniques.
