Morphea is a rare form of localized scleroderma. It leads to discoloration, hardening, and thickening of the skin. Its lesions are reddish or pinkish lesions in oval shape with light colored skin. These lesions are itchy and painless. They usually appear on chest, back, abdomen and sometimes on the neck, face, and limbs. They are limited to skin and rarely involve other organs. It is benign and self-limiting condition that goes on its own in three to five years. It cannot be cured nor prevented. In severe cases, it may cause disabilities and cosmetic deformities.
How To Prevent Morphea?
Morphea is a skin condition characterized by reddish discoloration that hardens to form oval-shaped lesions. It is a type of localized scleroderma. It affects the abdomen, back, face, neck, arms or legs. It is a rare condition of the skin. It does not affect the health of the affected person. It resolves on its own in 3 to 5 years. It sometimes leaves dark spots on the affected areas and sometimes causes muscle weakness. It does not affect the life expectancy of a person.
Morphea is a type of localized scleroderma. There are no preventive measures known for morphea. It cannot be delayed. Few ways discussed below may help in prevention-
Avoidance Of Occupational Hazards– occupational hazards like exposure to silica dust or certain chemicals should be avoided for remaining safe from morphea.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene– in various studies, it is found that oral hygiene is directly related to the health of the skin. Oral infections or unhygienic condition may cause tooth decay and dryness of the mouth. Maintaining good oral hygiene can prevent morphea to some extent.
Regular Exercises– regular exercises help in stretching and maintain flexibility of the joint. It also helps in gaining the health of the skin.
Maintaining Skincare– bath oils and moisturizing creams and lotions or ointments can be used frequently to soften the skin and keep the skin moist. A cold water room humidifier can be used to maintain the moisture of the skin, especially in dry season.
Reduction Of Stress– stress can increase your suffering. Researchers state that the reduction of stress can directly reduce pain and enhance skin healing. Relaxation of mind also promotes good health of the skin.
Causes Of Morphea
The exact cause behind the appearance of morphea is not clearly understood. Several theories are suggested to reveal the causes of morphea. The autoimmunity, genetic inheritance, infections, radiations, trauma or injury or environmental exposures are some of them. It is most commonly seen in women than in men. It usually begins in childhood. The average age at which it is diagnosed is 20-50 years. it is seen more in people who have three or more autoimmune diseases at the same time.
Symptoms Of Morphea
Morphea represents itself by ivory colored plaques that have inflamed borders. It starts as a reddish swollen patch that becomes white or yellow in color. The skin becomes hard, thickened and firm. This also causes the loss of hair in this area. With the progress of this lesion, sweating also gets lost.
In severe form, this disease may take a generalized approach and may involve various structures underneath the skin such as bones, muscles, and others. The skin represents multiple lesions widespread in the body. These lesions become so large that their borders are indistinguishable. However, they are not associated with systemic scleroderma.
In some cases, they become so severe that they may lead to joint contractures, limb-length discrepancy, facial atrophy and wasting of muscles resulting in deformities and disabilities.
Conclusion
Morphea is an inflammatory condition of the skin. It is a benign condition. It cannot be cured or prevented. However, its symptoms can be reduced. It can be prevented by maintaining good skin care, avoidance of provoking occupational hazards, regular exercises, and others discussed above.
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