What is Myositis Disease?

Myositis Disease: Common causes, Key Signs and What Triggers it?

Myositis is an array of diseases that cause muscle inflammation, but sometimes, the term is also used to describe muscle inflammation itself. Inflammation is more likely to be caused by infection, injury, drugs, and autoimmune diseases.

Although, as of now, there is no cure, doctors generally use various treatments to alleviate symptoms. Keep reading to learn about the symptoms of myositis, its triggers, and treatment methods.

What Causes Myositis? 

Doctors aren't sure entirely why myositis occurs, but they believe that it is caused by infection, trauma, autoimmune disease, or medication side effects. While there is no cure, specific measures can help ease the symptoms. The most effective treatment for myositis depends on the underlying triggers of the condition.

What are the Symptoms of Myositis?

Symptoms of myositis are:

• Muscle weakness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Fatigue
• Swelling
• Difficulty in breathing or swallowing
• Arrhythmia (if you have myositis in your heart)
   

When you have an episode of symptoms, you may have trouble moving or doing certain things that you usually are able to do. You may tire more quickly or feel like you can't move your arms, hands, or legs.

Since myositis comes in various forms, the symptoms can vary. Your healthcare provider will explain what to expect and which specific symptoms are likely to affect you.

What Triggers Myositis?

Physicians aren't sure what triggers myositis. It can develop independently, but in some cases, it may be linked to other underlying conditions:

• Myositis is classified as an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly targets the body’s own tissues instead of protecting them.
• The precise cause of this immune system malfunction is still unclear.
   

However, individuals who already have other autoimmune conditions may have a higher risk of developing myositis. They may include:

• Lupus
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Scleroderma
   

Some individuals get myositis following infection with a virus, such as:

• Common cold
• Flu (influenza)
• HIV

How is Myositis Treated?

Even though myositis isn't curable, treatment attempts to regulate symptoms and reduce muscle inflammation. They may include the following:

1. Medical Treatment

• Corticosteroids & Immunosuppressants: Medications like prednisone, dexamethasone, methotrexate, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil help reduce immune attacks and skin rash. Improvement is monitored closely.
• Anti-inflammatories: Anti-inflammatory drugs like NSAIDs are given for pain relief.
   

2. Lifestyle Changes

The following lifestyle changes can help prevent myositis symptoms:

• Physical Therapy with Medication: Most physicians recommend physical therapy along with medication. After the medicines start taking effect, regular stretching exercises are beneficial to keep the range of motion intact in weak legs and arms and prevent muscle shortening. Physicians may also recommend whirlpool baths, heat, and light massage.
• Rest: Proper rest is also essential for the patient to cope with myositis. Regular breaks in a day and limiting activity are also required.
• Healthy Meal: A healthy meal can assist in preventing and restricting the effects of myositis symptoms. Therefore, eating according to a dietitian-approved meal timetable is required.
• Manage Stress: Practices like yoga and meditation can assist individuals with myositis in lowering stress levels, which is essential for their overall well-being.
   

Here are some additional pointers to keep in mind:

• Treatment options differ between inclusion body myositis and infectious myositis.
• Alemtuzumab might be a promising therapy for those with inclusion body myositis, especially since this condition often resists corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs.
• For infectious myositis, some patients improve with oral antibiotics like cloxacillin, while others may need intravenous antibiotics and additional procedures such as abscess drainage.
   

Without proper treatment, the infection could lead to sepsis.

At present, myositis is an incurable condition. However, several research studies are being conducted to find a cause and a cure. Keeping an emphasis on early diagnosis, appropriate treatments, and follow-up will enable the patients to lead normal lives by suppressing the symptoms.