About
| Dermatomyositis is one of a group of diseases called idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. Inflammation occurs in muscles, organs, and tissues. "Myositis" means muscle inflammation. Dermatomyositis is distinguished from other myositis by the presence of an itchy rash on the face, chest, neck, and/or thighs. |
SYMPTOMS
+ symmetric muscle weakness - typically of the proximal muscles
+ skin changes - Gottron's papules, shawl sign, V sign, Heliotrope rash, nail abnormalities, mechanic's hands, scalp
+ lung disease - most commonly in patients with antisynthetase antibodies
+ Antisynthetase syndrome - Anti-Jo-1 antibody (20% of dermatomyositis patients)
+ elevation of creatine kinase (CK) levels
+ muscle inflammation
GENERAL CARE
SPECIALISTS
+ Rheumatologist
+ Dermatologist
+ Physical Therapist
BLOOD TESTS
+ Creatine kinase (CK) - 1x/month
+ C-Reactive Protein (CRP) - 1x/month
+ Sedimentation Rate (ESR) - 1x/month
+ Aldolase - 1x/month
+ Myosotis Assessor + Jo 1 antibody - initial
MEDICATIONS
+ Prednisone
+ Methotrexate
+ Azathioprine
METHODS OF HEALING
Exercise 2-3 times per week to encourage muscle strength and flexibility. This may only be possible with the support of a physical therapist at first. Once enough strength has been gained to move more independently, find an activity that allows you accommodate. For example, a yoga class with an instructor who can suggest accommodations, or a cycling class that allows you to adjust resistance.
Include nutritionally dense foods and/or bio-available supplements to ensure your body is getting vitamins and minerals. Some of the things I include in my diet are;
Dandelion Root (ie. Dandy Blend)
Chaga mushroom
Lions Mane mushroom
Cordyceps mushroom
fermented Turmeric
Vitamin C
Ashwagandha
Rhodiola
HAVE QUESTIONS OR NEED MORE SUPPORT?
ABOUT Catherine | I am a mother of a three year old and site supervisor of a state preschool program in Santa Cruz, CA
RESOURCES
Here are some great links and resources to help you as you navigate your Autoimmune Disease.
AUTOIMMUNE STORIES
Their stories are brave, honest and intimately revealing of their diagnosis, their successes, their hardships and their lives. Sharing their stories allows them to put words to their journey while providing inspiration to others with an autoimmune disease.
