Why Scleroderma Causes Swallowing Problems (And What You Can Do)

Struggling with swallowing problems or acid reflux from systemic sclerosis? Systemic sclerosis, or scleroderma, often leads to swallowing problems, dry mouth, and more. In this episode, we break down how fibrosis affects the mouth and esophagus, creating challenges like dry mouth and acid reflux. Learn practical tips to manage these symptoms and improve your quality of life. 💻 https://connectedrheumatology.com/ Visit the Connected Rheumatology website and get your Appointment Home Run Handbook, the guide you need to tell your doc your story -and get answers once and for all! Oral & dental aspects of Scleroderma w/ facial/mouth stretches - https://www.sruk.co.uk/media/filer_pu... 🎥 watch more: 7 Facts about Scleroderma - a Rheumatologist explains -    • 7 facts about Scleroderma - a Rheumatologi...   3 Questions answered about Raynauds -    • 3 Questions Answered about Raynaud's Syndrome   Raynaud’s treatments -    • Raynaud's not any better? Learn about the ...   Heartburn with autoimmune conditions -    • Heartburn with Autoimmune Conditions   💡Video Key Takeaways ✔️ Scleroderma causes fibrosis, not inflammation, which can affect multiple areas, including the mouth and esophagus. This fibrosis can lead to issues like dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, and acid reflux. ✔️Mouth-related challenges include skin tightening around the mouth and secondary Sjogren's syndrome, which decreases saliva production, increasing the risk of dental problems and making swallowing harder. ✔️Esophageal complications involve fibrosis of the esophageal muscles and a weakened lower esophageal sphincter, causing food to get stuck, acid reflux, and potential lung issues from aspiration. ✔️Managing these symptoms requires regular dental care, dietary adjustments (smaller, more frequent meals), adequate hydration, elevating the head while sleeping, acid-reducing medications, and potentially esophageal dilation or surgery. ✔️Effective communication with healthcare providers is crucial for personalized treatment, and the free “Appointment Home Run Handbook” can help patients organize their medical information and enhance discussions with their doctors. ⏱️Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro 0:44 Scleroderma and the Mouth 4:22 The Esophagus 7:36 When food gets stuck **Please note - we do not provide medical advice, opinions or diagnosis via email, phone or social media messaging. 👩🏻‍⚕️ About me: Hello! I am Dr. Elizabeth Ortiz and I’m so happy you are here. I am a double board certified Rheumatologist with over 18 years experience practicing Rheumatology and am passionate about teaching & empowering patients to partner with their doctor. * The information in this video is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in this video is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/health professional. Any comments and/or recommendations made in the comment section by anyone other than Connected Rheumatology does not reflect the opinion or recommendation of Connected Rheumatology.*