Connective Tissue Diseases: Signs & Symptoms

Connective Tissue Diseases: Signs & Symptoms

Connective tissue diseases can affect everything from joints to skin, organs and blood vessels - often in complex and confusing ways. Dr. Stephanie Ingram, a SIMEDHealth board-certified Rheumatologist breaks down these conditions, explaining the most common types, early warning signs, risk factors, potential complications, and the latest treatment options available.
 
With a compassionate approach and deep clinical experience, Dr. Ingram helps patients understand their diagnosis and take control of their health journey. To learn more about Stephanie Ingram, MD, click here.
 
 
To schedule an appointment with SIMEDHealth Rheumatology, click here.

 

1. What is connective tissue, and what are connective tissue diseases?

Connective tissue is a broad term referring to various parts of the body--bones, cartilage, fascia, ligaments, skin, tendons and body fat. 

Connective tissue diseases are disorders that can affect these areas of the body and are usually grouped as either genetic (i.e.  a hypermobility disorder) or autoimmune (i.e. rheumatoid arthritis). 

 

2. What are some common connective tissue diseases?

There are more than 200 different connective tissue diseases. Some of the more commonly known ones include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematous, scleroderma and Ehler Danlos syndrome.

 

3. What are early signs and symptoms?

Each connective tissue disease involves a specific pattern of symptoms, but common symptoms can include joint or muscle pain, weakness, fatigue and stiffness.

 

4. Who’s at risk for connective tissue diseases?

Connective tissue diseases can be genetic or autoimmune.  In the case of a genetic condition, gene mutations can cause tissues to develop incorrectly. In the case of an autoimmune disease, the immune system can attack different components of the body.  In essence, the risk factors leading to connective tissue disease are broad and range from exposure to severe infections, toxins, chemicals or even genetics.  

 

5. What complications are caused by untreated connective tissue diseases?

Complications are broad and are dependent on the specific disease. They can range from the innocuous such as dry eyes and dry mouth to the more serious such as organ failure.   

 

6. How has treatment evolved in recent years?

Treatments for autoimmune connective tissue diseases involve the use of medications that decrease the activity of the immune system (immunosuppressants or corticosteroids). Most genetic connective tissue diseases involve the treatment of the specific symptoms that are occurring (i.e. physical therapy or oral analgesics for muscle or joint pain).

 

7. What role does lifestyle and exercise play in managing these conditions?

Eating a well-balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and obtaining sufficient sleep are important for improving overall health and can be beneficial in supporting a healthy immune system.