Esophageal Conditions
Achalasia
Barrett’s Esophagus
Diffuse Esophageal Spasm (DES)
Esophageal Cancer
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Hiatal Hernia
Nutcracker Esophagus
Scleroderma
Scleroderma
What is Scleroderma?
Scleroderma is a chronic connective tissue disease. Scleroderma can cause the tightening or thickening of skin, blood vessels and damage to internal organs. When this disease affects the esophagus, it does so by causing decreased blood supply as well as by damaging and decreasing the muscle layers in the esophagus. This results in an inability of the esophagus to adequately empty as well as to promote gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
What symptoms will I experience if I have Scleroderma?
There are a wide variety of symptoms of scleroderma, depending upon which organs are affected. If the esophagus is affected you may experience:
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Difficulty Swallowing |
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(GERD) |
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Chest Pain |
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Acid taste in mouth |
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of scleroderma will depend on the symptoms you are experiencing. Diagnosis may include a physical exam, endoscopy, barium swallow and esophageal manometry.
What is the treatment process for Scleroderma?
Most patients with scleroderma symptoms can be controlled with medicines, such as anti-secretory drugs. Surgery is an option on occasion if medications fail to control the symptoms of scleroderma. Surgery is a Nissen fundoplication, which involves wrapping the upper portion of the stomach around the bottom of the esophagus, to reinforce and strengthen the valve between the esophagus and the stomach. This will help prevent reflux of acid into the esophagus. However, because of the decreased muscular activity within the esophagus in patients with scleroderma, surgery may lead to additional difficulties swallowing and therefore is not commonly recommended.
Where can I learn more about Scleroderma?