Dermatomyositis is a rare auto-immune disorder characterised by weakness in the muscles and a skin rash. It not only impacts muscles but also affects the skin, making it itchy and painful. It is most widespread in kids aged 5 to 15 years and adults aged 40 to 60 years, and more frequently affects women than men.
The causes of Dermatomyositis are still not fully known but it involves the immune system attacking body tissues mistakenly. This results in a noticeable red or purple rash on the facial skin, eyelids or other body parts like the shoulders and hands. Patients may also have muscle weakness that makes regular tasks like climbing stairs or even getting up from a chair harder.
Dermatomyositis can be serious. It can cause problems swallowing or breathing and pose an increased risk of lung infections, if not treated. Early diagnosis and treatment can control symptoms and help stay away from serious complications.
Dermatomyositis is a complex condition where the immune system attacks the body's own skin and muscles. Even though the reasons for this disease are not completely understood, researchers have identified certain factors that could contribute to the disease.
The most common causes of Dermatomyositis are:
auto-immune Response: Dermatomyositis is an auto-immune disorder where the body’s own immune system attacks the tissues. Here the immune system attacks tiny blood vessels in muscle and skin, leading to inflammation.
Genetic Factors: Other patients may have genes making them more susceptible to auto-immune diseases like Dermatomyositis. Family history is sometimes involved, but direct genetic transmission is uncommon.
Environmental Triggers: Exposure to particular environmental elements like bacterial infection or ultraviolet light might trigger an abnormal immune system reaction, particularly in auto-immune diseases.
Viral Infections: Even some viral infections may trigger abnormal immune responses in the body that may cause Dermatomyositis. This is under study for more conclusive evidence.
Medications: Some medications cause symptoms similar to Dermatomyositis. They are called drug-induced Dermatomyositis and usually resolve when the medication is stopped.
Dermatomyositis is an auto-immune disease marked by muscle and skin irritation. Its signs and symptoms may manifest differently across adults and children, often starting subtly and then gradually becoming more severe.
The basic symptoms and signs associated with Dermatomyositis are:
Most often, muscle weakness shows up in the muscles near the trunk of the body, i.e., in the hips, upper arms, shoulders, thighs, and neck. This weakness is usually symmetrical and may significantly limit daily activities such as climbing stairs or lifting objects.
Dermatomyositis usually causes a characteristic red or purple skin rash that can be patchy or widespread. It frequently affects the facial skin, elbows, knuckles, knees, eyelids, chest and back. The rash may be itchy and painful.
These are raised, rough, violet-coloured bumps over the knuckles, elbows and knees, specific to the condition of Dermatomyositis.
This is a violet or purplish rash which usually appears on the eyelids and is accompanied by swelling.
More severely, and particularly in children, hard calcium bumps could develop under skin or in muscles.
Joint discomfort may occur with weakness in muscles and skin changes.
Other people might experience issues swallowing because of muscle weakness resulting in malnutrition and weight loss.
The inflammation may spread to the lungs, causing difficulty breathing and increasing the risk of respiratory infections.
Do you have any of the following symptoms?
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of Dermatomyositis using evidence-based Ayurveda. The treatment plans are customised to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.
Personalised Medicines: Ayurvedic medicinal formulations are included in treatments targetting the root cause, balancing the doshas and improve overall immunity..
Yoga, Meditation and Mindfulness Practices: These calming activities support psychological health and general wellness.
Ayurvedic Treatments: Procedures like Panchakarma and various kinds of massage therapies to cleanse the body and bring emotional stability.
Diet & Lifestyle Recommendations: Expert suggestions on lifestyle and diet adjustments to support peak health.
Ayurvedic medicines for Dermatomyositis target the root cause of the disease, balance the doshas and help reduce inflammation and other symptomatic conditions. These medicines help regain the natural harmony of the body, which Ayurveda believes to be important for optimal health.
Some commonly used Ayurvedic herbs for treatment of Dermatomyositis are given below:
Turmeric (Curcuma Longa): This golden spice is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent. It decreases muscle and skin inflammation and could help manage the symptoms of Dermatomyositis.
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera): Ashwagandha strengthens the muscles and increases energy. It is especially useful for managing muscle weakness that comes with Dermatomyositis.
Boswellia (Boswellia Serrata): Boswellia is an anti-inflammatory herb that helps control pain and swelling in muscles and joints.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Amla is a good source of Vitamin C and confers general health benefits to patients suffering from auto-immune conditions.
Giloy (Tinospora Cordifolia): Giloy is believed in Ayurveda to boost immunity and inhibit inflammation. It manages systemic inflammation of Dermatomyositis.
Kustha (Saussurea Lappa): This herb is typically used for skin disorders and helps with the rashes and skin inflammation of Dermatomyositis.
Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula): Haritaki has regenerative properties and helps with the detoxification processes involved in auto-immune disorders.
Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris): Another herb that reduces weakness and improves stamina and performance of the muscular system of the body is gokshura.
Yes, certain yoga asanas and mild workouts as well as physical therapies when guidedby a certified professional can help maintain muscle strength and flexibility without excessive exertion.
A diet comprising of surplus antioxidants in the form of fruits and veggies may lower inflammation and boost immune health.
Follow-ups are essential every 3 to 6 months and must be done to monitor the illness and modify treatments as necessary.
Authentic Ayurvedic treatments often include herbal medicines and supplements as well as include lifestyle altercations that can help increase energy and ease fatigue.
Ayurveda views auto-immune conditions as imbalances in the Vata and Pitta doshas, and treats them holistically via diet, lifestyle and herbal treatments.
