Diagnosis
Everyone's journey to diagnosis is different; the symptoms of scleroderma are not the same for everyone and this makes it hard to spot. Here is some brief advice on how you can make your journey a little easier.
3 min read
Getting a diagnosis
Getting a diagnosis can be scary but now that you know what has been causing your symptoms you can take a little more control. You can find out what scleroderma is and work with your doctor to find the best ways to manage your symptoms so that you can carry on doing the things that are important to you.
A diagnosis also provides an explanation for your family or work colleagues to help them understand what has been happening to you.
Make the most of each appointment
Try writing a list of questions you want to ask your doctor, or have a close friend or family member go along with you. It is important to tell your doctor about all your symptoms, even if they don't seem serious.
Tell your doctor
The symptoms you have, when they started and what they mean to you on a day-to-day basis.
What has changed since your last appointment; what has improved, what has got worse and what is new.
How you have been managing your symptoms and what seems to make them better or worse.
What you think of any medication or supplements you have been taking.
Anything you are uncertain or worried about.
When you have given your doctor the whole story, they will be able to manage them in the best possible way. They can discuss your concerns, answer your questions and give you clear advice about what you should and shouldn’t do to get the best control of your symptoms.
Making the most of your appointment
You may also like to read:
Specialist team
Lung problems
Patient organisations and support groups
"When I was first diagnosed with scleroderma, it was bewildering at first. It was something I'd never heard of."
– Mandy