Inflammable Muscle Disease- Dermatomyositis Dermatomyositis is a kind of auto immune disorder in which the healthy cells of the immune system gets affected. This kind of disorder affects Skin, Muscles, Joints, Oesophagus, Lungs and less commonly the Heart. The cause of this disease is still unknown. However, according to certain research it is evident that certain kind of virus or even vaccines or drugs could trigger this kind of problem. Other reports suggest that this kind of disease occurs during the state of pregnancy between Mother and Foetus. The first symptom of this disease is appearance of patchy and scaly skin rash around the neck, knees, back and shoulders. The rash may be of violet or even dark red in color. These rashes develop before the muscle becomes week and illness reaches at its first stage. The diagnosis of this disease among children is difficult as it develops gradually. The rashes disturb the child for several years before prompting any signs of the disease. A large percentage of teenagers or small children may develop this kind of skin disorder and some lumps are formed under the skin. The whole process is quiet painful. These bumps are nothing but they are calcium deposits found under the skin. Such kind of condition is also called as calcinosis. It is not commonly found in adults. Dermatomyositis Treatment There is no particular treatment for dermatomyositis, but there are treatments that can enhance the strength of the muscles and their functionality. The earlier treatment is started the more effective the treatment is, thus leading to very few complications. However, no single approach is the best for this kind of problem. Your doctor can customize the treatment based on the symptoms and how well you respond to the therapy.
Corticosteroids For majority of the people, the first step in treatment is to take medication for corticosteroid. Usually, the preferred medication is prednisone. Corticosteroids medications inhibit the immune system, and thus limit the production of antibodies, which in turn reduce the occurrence of muscle inflammation. Thus, it improves overall strength of the muscles. The doctor may also prescribe topical corticosteroids for the skin. In the beginning, the doctors will prescribe a high dose, and then with passage of time it will decrease the dose depending upon the symptoms. The condition improves in about two to four weeks, but medication is required for several months. Prolonged usage of steroids can have damaging effects, which is why doctor will gradually lower down the dose of medication to low levels. Because of a range of side effects, your doctor may even suggest supplements to combat it, like Calcium and Vitamin D.