Lifestyle Modifications and Quality of Life for Scleroderma

Psychosocial Considerations in Scleroderma

Scleroderma can be an extremely disabling and painful condition. Education and support are very important for the individual, as well as their family and friends, in coping with the symptoms of the disease.

Some of the issues with which patients must learn to cope include:

• Body image dissatisfaction due to alterations of physical appearance (skin, mouth, limb contracture).
• Psychological co-morbidity - some patients may experience denial, anger, frustration and depression

• Sexual dysfunction:

  • women: fertility, vaginal dryness
  • men: impotence

• Change in employment status due to reduced physical function

Support groups may be a good source of emotional and physical assistance, as well as of information regarding treatments and resources.

Information regarding ongoing clinical studies in your area can be obtained at the Clinical Trials Listing Service at http://www.centerwatch.com