Myositis refers to a group of rare conditions that weaken the muscles and cause inflammation. These conditions gradually progress over time, leading to muscle deterioration. While there is no cure, treatments using medications and physical therapy help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

The most common forms of myositis are polymyositis and dermatomyositis.

The main symptom of myositis is muscle weakness, which often develops gradually. You may struggle with daily tasks such as:

• Standing up from a chair
• Climbing stairs
• Lifting light objects like a cup of tea
• Combing your hair

Other symptoms may vary depending on the type of myositis and may include:

• Painful or aching muscles
• Severe fatigue
• Weight loss
• Night sweats
• Patchy, red rash, especially on the eyelids, face, neck, or backs of the hands
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or breathing

Symptoms may come and go, with some periods being worse than others. If you experience these symptoms, see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment.

There are different types of myositis, but the two most common include:

• Polymyositis: This type primarily affects muscles close to the trunk, like the hips, thighs, and shoulders. It tends to develop slowly, mostly in adults.
• Dermatomyositis: Along with muscle weakness, this form causes a distinctive red or purple rash on the face, eyelids, neck, chest, and hands. Both adults and children can develop dermatomyositis.

If you think you have myositis, your GP will likely start with a blood test to check for elevated muscle enzymes, indicating inflammation. A specialist may then perform additional tests such as:

• MRI scan: To detect muscle inflammation.
• Electromyography (EMG): To evaluate electrical activity in the muscles.
• Muscle biopsy: To examine muscle tissue for signs of damage.

The exact cause of myositis remains unclear. However, most types result from autoimmune conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy muscle tissue, causing inflammation.

Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis often link to myositis, and genetics may also play a role in developing the condition.

While myositis cannot be cured, treatments aim to manage symptoms and improve muscle function. Common treatments include:

• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs like corticosteroids reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system’s attacks on the muscles.
• Physical Therapy: Regular physiotherapy helps maintain muscle strength and mobility, slowing the progression of muscle weakness.

In more severe cases, other treatments may be necessary, such as:

• Immunosuppressants: These medications help control the immune response, preventing further muscle damage.
• Immunoglobulin Therapy: This therapy uses antibodies to regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.

For those with severe symptoms, speech and language therapy may help manage difficulties with swallowing or speaking. Regular medical check-ups help monitor the condition and ensure that treatments remain effective.

Although myositis is a long-term condition, proper treatment and management allow many people to lead active lives. By staying active with physical therapy, taking prescribed medications, and following your healthcare team’s advice, you can manage symptoms effectively. Support groups and resources can also provide additional help for living with myositis.

Myositis causes muscle weakness and inflammation, but treatments like medication and physical therapy offer symptom relief and help maintain quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are key to preventing complications and improving outcomes.