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? Systemic
Sclerosis Causes
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| Scleroderma Affects the Working of the GI Tract |
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.
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,
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| 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.
