Friday, August 10, 2012

Scleroderma and Acid Reflux: Home Remedies and Natural Treatment for Systemic Sclerosis


Scleroderma Affects
the Working of the GI Tract
Scleroderma is an autoimmune condition with an annual incidence of 19 million cases. The condition, also referred to as systemic sclerosis, is three times more prevalent in females, though significantly higher in middle aged females. The prevalence is higher in specific races like African Americans and Native Americans.  The condition has several subsets and prognosis can be predicted only after the specific subset manifestations are clear. Home remedies and Natural treatments can provide palliation.
 What is Scleroderma?
The disease is characterized by tightening and hardening of the skin and connective tissues of the body, which is attributed to injuries to the small arteries. There are two basic forms,
·        Localized or limited scleroderma affects only the skin and prognosis is typically good.
·        Diffused scleroderma tends to impairs internal viscera, such as the kidneys, heart, lungs, and digestive tract.
 
This article will focused at complications of the digestive tract while kidney and heart symptoms are covered in separate sections.
 Systemic Sclerosis Causes
 
While there is no obvious cause linked with the condition, there are certain speculations which attempt to explain the onset of this condition,
·        Genetic predisposition is considered to be one of the leading explanations, explaining the specific high prevalence in certain races. Cytomegalovirus is also linked with the condition.
·        Some suggest an autoimmune mechanism which is triggered by circulating maternal blood in fetal cells, resulting in a foreign body reaction.
·        Certain chemotherapy agents and exposure to occupational solvents have also been linked with the onset of the disease.
Acid Reflux and Scleroderma
The clinical features of systemic sclerosis depend on the degree of internal and external involvement; it can badly affect the skin, blood vessels, GI tract, kidneys, and lungs. Here are some of the gastric symptoms of systemic sclerosis
·        Approximately 90 % of the patients diagnosed with scleroderma have some degree of gastro-intestinal involvement; with about half being symptomatic Acid reflux is a common manifesting symptom, which can damage the portion of the esophagus close to the stomach.
·        Additionally, some may develop a problem with absorption of nutrients if the muscles of the intestine do not move the food properly.
·        Severe GI problems are: malabsorption, intestinal pseudo-obstruction, diarrhea, constipation, decreased peristalsis, and bowel incontinence.
Home Remedies for Scleroderma Treatment
This article is specifically providing information on home remedies that can be beneficial in the treatment of GI symptoms associated with scleroderma,

Aloe Vera Juice
allays Acidity in
Scleroderma

1.       Mint soothes the lining of the GI tract. It is the best remedy for heartburn and acid reflux; and ameliorates acidity almost instantly. It is a carminative, expels gas and prevents crampy stomach pains. Make a decoction of 5 to 10 mint leaves and consume daily.
2.       Ginger is packed with a compound called gingerols. Gingerols are effective inflammation-fighting agents. They help allay inflammation, alleviate pain and discomfort and perk up digestion. Ginger tea, twice daily is an excellent medication for systemic sclerosis.
3.       Have ½ cup of aloe vera juice three times every day; aloe vera reduces acidity and stomach upsets successfully. It also helps manage constipation effectively and peps up the working of the alimentary canal.
4.       Having a bowl of yogurt everyday will help restore the GI functioning to normal. Yogurt is packed with beneficial bacteria; thus one bowl of yogurt will help reinstate the normal balance of healthy bacteria in the digestive tract and will effectively deal with both constipation as well as diarrhea.
Natural Treatment for Acid Reflux and Scleroderma
In addition to the home remedies, it is vital that you handle the stress that a chronic ailment such as scleroderma triggers.
·        Meditation and Yoga are very vital in dealing with stress and help enhance the ability to cope with the distressing symptoms of the condition.
·        Regular exercise like jogging, early morning walks, etc can also act as health boosters. Avoid heavy excercises like lifting weights as they may further aggravate the symptoms.
·        Nux vomica is a homeopathic drug which acts wonderfully on the gastro-intestinal system. It helps improve bowel movement, enhances digestion and absorption and effectively treats nausea, vomiting, heart burn and acidity. It is also useful for incontinence of the bowel. Frequent dosage is recommended, about 5 to 8 times daily.