Dermatomyositis is characterized by a rash that precedes or accompanies muscle weakness. The cause is unknown.
In this five part video series, we dive into what Dermatomyositis is, some of its signs & symptoms, how it is diagnosed, how to treat it and understanding some lifestyle options when living with it.
Dermatomyositis is a rare autoimmune myopathy disease that targets the muscles and skin. Dermatomyositis causes a characteristic skin rash on the chest, back, or arms that looks like a sunburn. It also causes muscle weakness so severe that it can be hard for some patients to do everyday things
Dermatomyositis presents symptoms in many ways; however, the most common signs are skin, muscle, and lung issues.
Most doctors will perform a liver biopsy that shows everything is normal. Then, they will look at the enzymes in the muscle and see that there is a problem.
The goal of treatment in Dermatomyositis is to bring down the immune system so that it stops attacking the healthy tissues in the muscle.
Exercising, avoiding the sun, and maintaining a relatively stress-free lifestyle are three ways to stay healthy and avoid flares.
