Collagen, also known as collagen disease, is a group of autoimmune inflammatory diseases that affect the body’s connective tissue, which is made up of fibers, such as collagen, and is responsible for functions such as the release of spaces between organs. They provide support and support and also contribute to the advocacy of the organization.
Changes caused by collagen can affect various organs and body systems, such as the skin, lungs, blood vessels and lymphatic tissues, for example, and mainly produce dermatological and rheumatological signs and symptoms, such as joint pain, skin damage, changes in blood circulation, and dry mouth and eyes.
Some of the main collagen diseases are
This is the common autoimmune disease, causes damage to organs and cells by the action of autoantiantibodys and is more common in young people, although it can occur in anyone. Its cause is not yet completely determined and usually develops slowly and continuously, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, depending on each person.
Signs and symptoms: Lupus can cause a wide variety of clinical manifestations, both localized and spread throughout the body, including spots on the skin, mouth ulcers, arthritis, kidney and blood disorders, and inflammation of the lungs and heart.
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It is a disease that causes collagen fibers to build up in the body, causing unknown causes, that primarily attacks the skin and joints and can also affect blood circulation and other internal organs, such as the lungs, heart, kidneys and gastrointestinal tract.
Signs and symptoms: In general the body is heavier, stiffer, brighter and has circulatory difficulties that slow down slowly and gradually, when it attacks the internal organs, in its diffuse type, can lead to breathing difficulties, digestive alterations and also affect the functioning of the heart and kidneys, for example.
It is another type of autoimmune disease characterized by the infiltration of defensive cells into the tear glands and salivary glands, making it difficult to secrete; this disease is most common in middle-aged women, however, it can occur in anyone, and can be accompanied by diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, vascularitis or hepatitis, for example.
Signs and symptoms: Dry mouth and eyes are the main symptoms, which can slow down and cause and cause redness, burns and feeling of sand in the eyes and/or difficulty swallowing, speaking, increased tooth decay and burning sensation in the mouth. Symptoms in other areas of the body are not unusual, however, they can include fatigue, fatigue and joint and muscle pain.
It is also a type of autoimmune disease that attacks and compromises the muscles of the skin, when it only affects the muscles, can also be known as polymyositis, its cause is unknown and can occur in people of all ages
Signs and symptoms: Muscle weakness is common, which is more common in the trunk, making it difficult for arms and arms to move, causing problems performing actions such as stylizing or sitting, however, any muscle can be affected. which can lead to difficulties such as swallowing, moving your neck, walking or breathing, for example. On the other hand, skin lesions include red spots or bruises and flaking that can be damaged by the sun.
There is no clear cause for the emergence of the group of autoimmune diseases that cause collagen disease, although they are linked to erroneous and excessive activation of the immune system, it is not known exactly what is causing this situation.
Genetic and even environmental mechanisms, such as lifestyle and nutritional habits, are likely to cause these diseases; however, science needs to better determine these causes through poor research.
To diagnose cholangosis in addition to clinical evaluation, your doctor may order blood tests to identify inflammation and antibodies present in these diseases, such as FAN, Mi-2, SRP, Jo-1, Ro/SS-A or La/SS-B, for example. Biopsies or analysis of swollen tiles may also be necessary.
The treatment of collagen, as well as any autoimmune disease, depends on its type and severity and should be guided by a rheumatologist or dermatologist. In general, it involves the use of corticosteroids, such as prednisone or prednisolone; in addition to other immunosuppressants or more potent immunoregulators, such as azathioprine, methotrexate, cyclosporine or rituximab, for example, to control immunity and reduce its effects on the body.
Also, certain measures such as sunscreen to prevent skin lesions and eye drops, artificial saliva to reduce dry eyes and mouth may be alternatives to reduce symptoms.
Collagen has no cure, however, science has sought to develop more modern therapies based on the control of immunity with immunotherapy, as these diseases are more effectively controlled.