Dermatomyositis

What is it?

Dermatomyositis is a rare inflammatory disease that affects the skin and muscles. It causes muscle weakness and a distinctive rash. The disease is considered an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.

What are the symptoms?

Muscle weakness, especially in the hips, shoulders, and upper arms
A reddish or purplish rash, often around the eyes (heliotrope rash) or on the elbows, knees, and chest
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Fatigue
Joint pain
Breathing difficulties (in severe cases when it affects the lungs)
Thickening or calcification of skin around joints

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

Polymyositis (another muscle disease)
Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus)
Scleroderma
Rheumatoid arthritis
Inflammatory myopathies

What are the aggravating factors?

Stress
Infections
Sun exposure (since the rash can worsen after sun exposure)
Pregnancy and certain hormonal changes

What types of food are helpful?

Anti-inflammatory foods: Include omega-3-rich foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds to reduce inflammation.
Vitamin D: Important for muscle health and immune function. Sun exposure and vitamin D-rich foods such as fortified milk and fatty fish are helpful.
Antioxidants: Vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium can support skin health and help fight oxidative stress.

Sample Recipe: Salmon and Spinach Salad

Ingredients: Grilled salmon, spinach, avocado, mixed nuts, olive oil, lemon juice.
Directions: Toss the spinach with avocado, mixed nuts, and olive oil, and top with grilled salmon. Drizzle with lemon juice for a delicious, anti-inflammatory meal.

What are the traditional treatments?

Corticosteroids: Prednisone or other steroids to reduce inflammation.
Immunosuppressive drugs: Methotrexate, azathioprine, or other drugs to suppress the immune system and manage symptoms.
Physical therapy: To help maintain muscle strength and function.
IV immunoglobulin (IVIG): For severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Turmeric (curcumin): Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, it may help reduce symptoms.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Can support muscle function and reduce muscle pain.
Acupuncture: May help with muscle pain and inflammation in some people.
Probiotics: Help support the immune system and gut health, which is important for managing autoimmune diseases.