M34: Systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma, is a chronic disease that impacts multiple systems of your body. It is characterized by the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues, and in some cases it can affect blood vessels and major organs such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, and the digestive tract. Common symptoms include skin thickening, cold fingers or toes, swollen or painful joints, digestive problems, and the onset of Raynaud's phenomenon, which causes your fingers to turn blue or white in response to cold temperatures. It is not contagious; instead, it appears to be caused by an abnormal immune response, although the exact reason remains unclear. The progress of the disease varies widely among individuals, with some experiencing only mild symptoms and others experiencing more significant impact on organ function.