Dermatomyositis treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Dermatomyositis treatment
Recommended health tests for Dermatomyositis
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Dermatomyositis
Dermatomyositis is a rare and complex condition characterized by muscle weakness and skin rash. It’s an inflammatory disease marked by distinctive skin manifestations and muscle inflammation, leading to progressive muscle weakness. The condition affects both children and adults and is more common in females than males. Its prevalence, though low, emphasizes the need for awareness and understanding, particularly regarding its management and treatment options rooted in both conventional and functional medicine.
Causes
The exact cause of dermatomyositis remains unknown; however, it is believed to involve an autoimmune reaction where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells and tissues. Factors that may trigger this autoimmune response include viral infections, underlying malignancies, and exposure to certain drugs or vaccines. Genetic predisposition may also play a role in the susceptibility to dermatomyositis, indicating a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors.
Signs and symptoms
- Progressive muscle weakness, particularly in the neck, shoulders, upper arms, thighs, and hips - A distinctive, violet or dusky red skin rash, often seen on the face, eyelids, knuckles, knees, or elbows - Difficulty swallowing or speaking - Fatigue after standing or walking - Fever and weight loss - Hardened deposits of calcium under the skin in children (calcinosis) - Lung issues if muscles responsible for breathing are affected
Diagnosing Dermatomyositis
Diagnostic procedures for dermatomyositis involve a combination of clinical evaluation and specific tests. Doctors generally start with a comprehensive physical exam, focusing on the skin rash and muscle strength. Blood tests looking for elevated levels of muscle enzymes indicative of muscle damage are common. Electromyography, which measures the electrical activity of muscle fibers, can help confirm the presence of muscle inflammation. Other diagnostics may include MRI to detect inflammation in muscles and a muscle or skin biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken and examined for signs characteristic of dermatomyositis.
Prevention and natural treatment
While there’s no known prevention for dermatomyositis, spotting the condition early and starting treatment promptly can significantly impact the management of symptoms and overall quality of life. Treatment in functional medicine focuses on a holistic approach, addressing the underlying immune dysfunction while managing symptoms naturally. Diet plays a crucial role, with an emphasis on anti-inflammatory foods rich in antioxidants. Eliminating processed foods, sugars, and gluten can help diminish inflammation. Supplements like fish oil, vitamin D, and probiotics can support immune function and muscle health. Physical therapy is highly beneficial in maintaining muscle strength and flexibility without overexertion, which is crucial for individuals with dermatomyositis. Additionally, natural treatments might include acupuncture and stress management techniques like yoga and meditation to improve overall well-being and reduce stress, which can exacerbate symptoms. Lastly, it's important for patients with dermatomyositis to avoid sun exposure, which can worsen skin symptoms. Protective clothing and sunscreens are essential preventive measures against UV light-triggered skin rash exacerbations. In summary, a comprehensive approach incorporating functional medicine principles can offer a holistic pathway to managing dermatomyositis, focusing on natural and supportive therapies that enhance the immune system and improve quality of life.
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