People with scleroderma in Bulgaria
Progressive systemic sclerosis, also known as scleroderma, is an autoimmune rheumatic disease characterised by thickening of the skin and involvement of the joints; muscle weakness and fibrotic changes in the internal organs are also seen. Based on the number of patients diagnosed and treated in the larger rheumatology departments of the university hospitals, their number is estimated at around 500 people. Because this type of disease is not very common, people are not sufficiently aware of it.
Our main goals are:
- for information about this disease to reach as many people as possible, so that if a patient experiences the first typical symptoms and, as is common practice today, first looks for information about their condition online, they know they must seek specialist medical help immediately and receive appropriate treatment;
- for patients to learn as much as possible about the symptoms, the course of the disease and the complications that can occur. The disease takes many forms;
- for patients and their families to learn about the ways people with scleroderma can cope through various non-drug therapies.
Additional topics to discuss with your doctor
We look at the impact of the disease on other areas of life that are often overlooked.
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Newly diagnosed with scleroderma
Many people who have recently been diagnosed share the same worries and fears. You may not have heard of scleroderma before you were diagnosed. But don’t worry – you have come to the right place.
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Newly diagnosed with Raynaud's
Raynaud’s is actually very common and in many cases will be a mild condition. We explain what it is, what to expect and how to get more support.
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Preparing for your doctor's appointment
When symptoms appear, you will most likely first go to your GP, who may refer you to a rheumatologist – a doctor who specialises in treating arthritis and other diseases of the joints, muscles and bones.
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Please note!
Every effort has been made to ensure that all information is complete and up to date. However, these articles should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and experience of a licensed medical professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medicine. The medicine information contained here is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions or side effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given medicine does not mean that the medicine or combination of medicines is safe, effective or appropriate for all patients or for all specific uses.
This English version is a translation; in case of doubt, the Bulgarian version applies.
