Pulmonary function tests
A pulmonary function test will assess how well your lungs work, mainly by testing your breathing.
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What annual tests are available for scleroderma?
Empower Yourself
Annual tests are essential to monitor the progression of scleroderma and something you are entitled to as a patient.
Although scleroderma does not yet have a cure, symptoms can be treated and annual check‑ups are critical to inform your doctor which treatments you need.
If any of these tests are not being performed and you feel they should be, tell your doctor. Some doctors will have more expertise than others and if you need to, take this booklet with you when requesting a particular test.
Don't be afraid to ask – all of these tests should be performed regularly.
Cardiac function tests
Cardiac function tests can detect slower contractions of the heart, which may indicate scarred heart muscle.
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Kidney function tests
Blood tests can check how much of a waste substance called creatinine is in the blood.
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Blood Pressure Measurements
Blood pressure tests estimate how hard blood is being pushed against the sides of arteries as it's being pumped around your body.
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Pain assessments
Pain assessments aim to evaluate the severity of your pain, to identify its source and identify how best you can manage it.
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Additional things to discuss with your doctor
Sexual wellbeing and mental health issues are other important issues to discuss regularly with your GP.
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Understanding Scleroderma
An introduction to this complex and often challenging condition
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Types of scleroderma
There are different types of scleroderma. Find out more
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Scleroderma FAQs
Find out all you need to know about scleroderma
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