Myositis Treatment

The word myositis is made up of two words myo which means muscle and itis meaning inflammation. When the immune system chronically or persistently inflames muscles in the body, it leads to myositis. Children as well as adults are vulnerable to this disease. The reasons for its development are still not well known, but doctors believe that it could be caused due to an injury, infection or autoimmune disease. Myositis develops over a period of time and symptoms range in their severity, usually resulting in the following forms.

Forms of Myositis

Polymyositis (PM)
Polymyositis chronically inflames skeletal muscles on both sides of the body and weakens them. It develops in the proximal muscles which results in difficulties while performing any physical task. Slowly and progressively the muscles are weakened, causing dysphagia, arthritis, heart arrhythmias, shortness of breath, fatigue and chronic pain in the joints and muscles. It then spreads to other muscles of the body such as the forearms, wrists and ankles.

Dermatomyositis (DM)
Dermatomyositis inflames the muscles and skin chronically leading to muscle weakness. The most prominent symptom of this form is swelling and appearance of rash on the skin of the affected area. The rash is patchy and can possess bluish-purple or red discolorations. Adults may experience a mild fever, weight loss, sensitivity to light and inflamed lungs.

Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM)
Inclusion body myositis inflames the distal and proximal muscles, affecting arms and legs first. This form is noted in people over the age of 50 and more in women than men. It leads to deposits of abnormal proteins, appearance of holes and filamentous inclusions in the muscle cells. It causes dysphagia and weak wrists, fingers and thigh muscles.

Juvenile Myositis (JM)
Children usually develop juvenile DM with symptoms of skin rash, muscle weakness and pain or dysphagia.

Treatment

Myositis can't be cured, it can only be managed with a combination of different treatments. Some forms of myositis are seen with other connective tissue diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. As severity of the muscle inflammation varies from patient to patient, a complete assessment and diagnosis by the doctor is needed to decide the type of treatment one should follow to restore health.

Medical Treatment

A medical therapist uses a combination of drugs while treating a patient. Corticosteroids and some immunosuppressants like methotrexate and azathioprine are used to treat polymyositis and dermatomyositis. These drugs slow the body's immune system, decreasing its capacity to inflame the muscles and skin. It helps to control inflammation, skin rash, pain and also helps to increase muscle strength. Anti-inflammatory drugs that are non-steroidal are also prescribed for pain relief.

Lifestyle Management

Exercise
An individually approved stretching exercise program prescribed by the doctor can help strengthen weakened arms and legs muscles and also prevent permanent muscle shortening. Physical activity helps to improve the quality of life and may also reduce any future disability.

Nutrition
Dietary intake affects the whole body, so diet must be well supplied with nutrition to fight infection and restore overall strength. The following nutrients and supplements are often prescribed by a doctor:

• Coenzyme Q10
• Creatine
• Fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids)
• Glucosamine
• Calcium and Potassium

Reduced Stress and Rest
A low level of stress and adequate rest is important to build as well as relax the weakened muscles. One can try relaxing forms of meditation like yoga and take frequent breaks to build strength.

Myositis associated illness solely affects muscles in any part of the body such as joints, skin, lungs, heart or intestine. Although its causes aren't well understood and it has no cure, patients diagnosed with myositis can manage their illness with exercise and healthy diet therapy.