There are several forms of myositis, but they all display similar symptoms and have similar treatments. Diagnosing for myositis can be complicated and is normally performed by an autoimmune specialist. Some of the tests used to diagnose myositis include blood tests and a muscle test known as an electromyogram or an EMG.
Identification
Myositis is a condition that causes the muscles to become inflamed. Over time the muscles become weakened and create a great deal of pain. According to Caring Medical and Rehabilitation Services, myositis is extremely rare with an occurrence of less than 10 cases for every 1 million people in the United States. It is an autoimmune condition that causes the immune system to begin attacking the muscles and causing inflammation and pain.
Effects
The initial symptoms of myositis are weakness in the muscles, muscle cramps and muscle pain. Over time other symptoms may start to occur including a series of red rashes in random parts of the body, a series of fevers that are not high in temperature but occur frequently, a general feeling of fatigue, an unexplained weight loss and a persistent heartburn or feeling of indigestion.
Potential
As myositis develops the symptoms can become much more painful and noticeable. These advanced symptoms include the onset of arthritis in the joints, an increased sensitivity to cold especially in the hands and feet commonly known as Raynaud's phenomenon, a labored or shallow breathing, a difficulty swallowing or an increase in pain when trying to speak or swallow and chronic cough that begins subtle but slowly becomes more noticeable and difficult to get rid of.
Prevention/Solution
Treatment for myositis centers around relieving the symptoms and regulating the body's immune system. There is no single medication that can cure myositis, but through a series of medications a doctor may be able to reduce the effects of the condition and allow the person to enjoy a good quality of life. Myositis is considered to be a chronic disease which means that once a person has it they have it for the rest of their life. The sooner a regiment of medications can begin, the sooner the symptoms can be brought under control.
Considerations
The medical experts at National Jewish Health warn that people with myositis are at a higher risk for developing many different types of cancer. While having myositis does not mean that a person will automatically contract cancer, it is important for people with the condition to receive regular screenings to help monitor the person's health and keep an watch out for other serious conditions.
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