Answer: This question is more complicated than it appears. Scleroderma affects the sweat glands and thus makes the skin extremely dry. Moisturizers and creams can help the skin feel less dry and tight, and using them may help keep ulcers from forming, but they can not help the underlying problem that is causing the skin tightness. Skin tightness, or fibrosis, occurs because the immune system is causing an overproduction of collagen, which makes the skin hard. Over time, the skin may soften on its own, so the most important treatment during the early phase is aggressive physical therapy to maintain as much mobility as possible. Immunosuppressant medications may also help. Various treatments (none proven in clinical trials) that have been used for systemic scleroderma skin fibrosis include:
For localized scleroderma, antimalarials like hydroxychloroquine sulfate may be used. Other options may include:
Self care to help with tightness includes keeping skin moisturized, wearing gloves to protect hands, using humidifiers and most importantly doing aggressive physical therapy to maintain mobility. Ask your doctor to prescribe a physical and/or occupational therapy program for you. Some people also find massage helpful. |