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Which are the symptoms of Dermatomyositis and Polymyositis?

See the worst symptoms of affected by Dermatomyositis and Polymyositis here

Dermatomyositis and Polymyositis symptoms

Symptoms of Dermatomyositis and Polymyositis


Dermatomyositis and polymyositis are both rare autoimmune diseases that primarily affect the muscles and skin. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct characteristics. Understanding the symptoms of these conditions is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Here are the key symptoms of dermatomyositis and polymyositis:



Dermatomyositis:


Muscle Weakness: One of the primary symptoms of dermatomyositis is muscle weakness, which typically affects the muscles closest to the trunk of the body, such as the hips, thighs, shoulders, and upper arms. This weakness can make it challenging to perform everyday tasks like climbing stairs, getting up from a seated position, or lifting objects.



Skin Rash: Dermatomyositis is characterized by a distinctive skin rash that often precedes or accompanies muscle weakness. The rash usually appears on the face, eyelids, chest, back, elbows, or knees. It may be patchy, reddish-purple in color, and have a scaly or raised appearance. In some cases, the rash can be itchy or painful.



Gottron's Papules: Gottron's papules are another characteristic feature of dermatomyositis. These are raised, scaly, or flat patches that appear over the knuckles, elbows, or knees. They may have a reddish or purplish color and can be associated with itching or sensitivity.



Heliotrope Rash: A heliotrope rash is a distinctive rash that appears as a purplish discoloration around the eyelids. It often accompanies dermatomyositis and can be associated with swelling or puffiness of the eyelids.



Difficulty Swallowing: Some individuals with dermatomyositis may experience difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia. This can make it challenging to eat solid foods and may lead to weight loss or malnutrition if not managed properly.



Muscle Pain and Tenderness: In addition to muscle weakness, dermatomyositis can cause muscle pain and tenderness. This discomfort may be more pronounced with movement or pressure on the affected muscles.



Fatigue: Many individuals with dermatomyositis experience persistent fatigue, which can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Fatigue may be unrelated to physical exertion and can be overwhelming even with adequate rest.



Joint Pain and Swelling: Joint pain and swelling can occur in some cases of dermatomyositis, particularly affecting the small joints of the hands and feet. This symptom is more common in adults than children.



Polymyositis:


Muscle Weakness: Like dermatomyositis, polymyositis also causes muscle weakness. However, in polymyositis, the weakness primarily affects the muscles closer to the trunk, such as the hips, thighs, shoulders, and upper arms. The weakness is usually symmetrical, meaning it affects both sides of the body equally.



Difficulty Rising from a Seated Position: Individuals with polymyositis often have difficulty getting up from a seated position due to muscle weakness in the hips and thighs. This can lead to a waddling gait or a need to use the arms to push off from a chair.



Generalized Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of polymyositis, similar to dermatomyositis. It can be persistent and debilitating, affecting daily activities and overall well-being.



Muscle Pain and Tenderness: Polymyositis can cause muscle pain and tenderness, which may be more pronounced with movement or pressure on the affected muscles. This discomfort can contribute to reduced mobility and difficulty performing routine tasks.



Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, can occur in polymyositis as well. It can make eating and drinking challenging, potentially leading to weight loss and malnutrition if not properly managed.



Shortness of Breath: In some cases, polymyositis can affect the muscles involved in breathing, leading to shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. This symptom may worsen with physical activity or exertion.



Joint Pain and Swelling: Similar to dermatomyositis, joint pain and swelling can occur in polymyositis, particularly affecting the small joints of the hands and feet. However, joint involvement is less common in polymyositis compared to dermatomyositis.



Systemic Symptoms: Both dermatomyositis and polymyositis can cause systemic symptoms such as fever, weight loss, and general malaise. These symptoms are more common in severe or advanced cases of the diseases.



If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can help manage the symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall quality of life.


Diseasemaps
9 answers
Muscle weakness painful skin rashes

Posted Jun 12, 2017 by Philrivera 100
POZDRAV. Gostaria muito de estar livre de dor e temperatura 37.6C e posso me mover.
Vesna

Posted Oct 17, 2017 by Vesna Albino 100
Pain in Joints under affected muscles
Weakness in muscles
pain in Joints under affected muscles
Difficulty climbing stairs and walking on slope road
Pain after standing for long time
After progression not able to walk, carry stuff over head or bring stuff from a shelf
Difficulty breathing while doing physical activities

Posted Oct 21, 2020 by Omneya Ashraf 1380
Translated from spanish Improve translation
Today my worst symptoms are the severe pain, muscle ache, mainly in the upper part of the back, extreme fatigue and joint pain.

Posted Mar 21, 2017 by Natalia 1070
Translated from spanish Improve translation
Muscle weakness, stiffness, or soreness
Problems swallowing
Purple color to the upper eyelids
Purple-red skin rash
Shortness of breath
The muscle weakness may come on suddenly or develop slowly over weeks or months. You may have trouble raising your arms over your head, getting up from a sitting position, and climbing stairs.

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000839.htm

Posted Aug 14, 2017 by Anaid 825
Translated from portuguese Improve translation
Muscle aches and pains, I think that is the worst because it is constantly present in various degrees. Then I would say, and the loss of strength that prevents him from doing physical activities, from the most simple, such as sitting and rising from a chair, to more complex such as running and climbing stairs.

Posted Sep 29, 2017 by Gislaine 1100
Translated from portuguese Improve translation
Fraqueza muscular, intense

Posted Oct 7, 2017 by Daniela 400
Translated from spanish Improve translation
muscle inflammation
decay
redness in the face, arms and legs
fever

Posted Oct 12, 2017 by alejandra 400

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It take a long time before i had a diagnose.  Aboute 5 years ago i went to a new dermatoligist and he searched in books for my condition.  At last a answer.  Only my skin. Not my muscles yet.  Although i struggle also with muscle loss it's not i...
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