Polymyositis is a rare inflammatory muscle disease characterised by muscle weakness and inflammation.
What is Polymyositis?
Polymyositis is a type of autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own muscles, leading to inflammation and weakness. It primarily affects the skeletal muscles, which are responsible for voluntary movements such as walking, climbing stairs, and lifting objects. Polymyositis can occur at any age but most commonly affects adults between the ages of 30 and 60, with women being slightly more affected than men.
Symptoms of Polymyositis
The symptoms of polymyositis typically develop gradually over weeks to months and may include:
Muscle Weakness
- Proximal Muscle Weakness – Weakness predominantly affecting the muscles closest to the trunk, such as the hips, thighs, shoulders, and upper arms. This weakness can make everyday activities, like rising from a chair or combing hair, challenging.
Fatigue
- Persistent Tiredness – Generalized fatigue and lack of energy, often accompanying muscle weakness.
Muscle Pain and Tenderness
- Muscle Aches – Some individuals may experience muscle tenderness and pain, particularly during movement or pressure on the affected muscles.
Difficulty Swallowing
- Dysphagia – Difficulty swallowing due to weakness of the muscles involved in swallowing.
Other Symptoms
- Raynaud’s Phenomenon – Color changes (white, blue, red) in fingers and toes in response to cold or stress.
- Interstitial Lung Disease – Inflammation and scarring of lung tissue, leading to difficulty breathing in some cases.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of polymyositis is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, immune system, and environmental factors:
- Family History – A family history of autoimmune diseases can increase the risk.
- Genetic Predisposition – Certain genetic markers may make individuals more susceptible.
- Autoimmunity – The immune system mistakenly attacks muscle cells, leading to inflammation and damage.
- Infections – Viral and bacterial infections might trigger the onset of polymyositis.
- Medications – Certain drugs may induce or exacerbate the condition.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing polymyositis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests:
- Symptom Inquiry – Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, their onset, duration, and any family history of autoimmune diseases.
- Muscle Assessment – Examining the affected muscles for signs of weakness, tenderness, and atrophy.
- Blood Tests – To detect elevated levels of muscle enzymes (e.g., creatine kinase, aldolase), which indicate muscle damage. Other tests may check for specific autoantibodies associated with polymyositis.
- Muscle Activity – Measures the electrical activity of muscles and identifies abnormalities.
- Tissue Sample – A small sample of muscle tissue is taken to look for inflammation, damage, and other characteristic changes.
Treatment Options
The goal of treating polymyositis is to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life. Treatment options include:
Medications
- Corticosteroids – Oral or intravenous steroids to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response.
- Immunosuppressants – Medications like methotrexate, azathioprine, or mycophenolate mofetil to control the immune system.
- Biologic Agents – Drugs such as rituximab for severe cases not responding to other treatments.
Physical Therapy
- Exercise Programs – Tailored exercises to maintain and improve muscle strength and flexibility.
- Occupational Therapy – Techniques to help with daily activities and improve quality of life.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Balanced Diet – Eating a nutritious diet to support overall health and manage symptoms.
- Weight Management – Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce strain on muscles.
Managing and Preventing Polymyositis
Managing and preventing polymyositis involves a combination of medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and self-care strategies. Here are some tips:
- Take medications as prescribed by your doctor to control inflammation and prevent flare-ups.
- Engage in regular, low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, or yoga to maintain muscle strength and overall health.
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support overall health.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness to help manage symptoms.
- Regular visits to your healthcare provider to monitor the progression of the disease, adjust treatment as needed, and manage any complications.
Polymyositis is a rare autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the muscles, causing weakness and inflammation. While it can be challenging to manage, with the right knowledge, treatment, and lifestyle modifications, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. If you suspect you have polymyositis, it’s important to seek medical advice early to manage symptoms and prevent complications. By staying informed, adhering to treatment plans, and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can take control of your condition and live well with polymyositis.
