10 Scleroderma Symptoms
Symptom #8: Digestive Problems
In patients with systemic sclerosis, atrophic and fibrotic changes in the smooth muscle and submucosa of the gastrointestinal tract can lead to decreased peristalsis (the wave-like movements that push its contents forward). Also, the muscular valve at the base of the swallowing tube (lower esophageal sphincter) can become weakened. In turn, this can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), constipation, gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying), and pseudo-obstructions.
Patients with GERD can experience symptoms like heartburn, nausea and abdominal pain. Patients with constipation and gastroparesis can present with abdominal distention. Additionally, patients with gastroparesis can experience nausea and a sensation of early satiation or loss of appetite. Finally, some patients may experience diarrhea, as a result of the overgrowth of gut bacteria, and malabsorption.
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