Symptoms Linked To Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome

First identified in 1989, eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome is a rare condition that produces inflammation in the muscles, lungs, and skin. Patients with this syndrome also have elevated levels of eosinophils (white blood cells). An epidemic of eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome in 1989 was found to be caused by tainted L-tryptophan supplements, although the precise substance that caused the contamination was not identified. The supplements involved in the epidemic had been manufactured using genetically engineered bacteria. Since that time, some individuals have developed symptoms associated with this syndrome after taking sleep aids, weight loss supplements, and bodybuilding products containing L-tryptophan or 5-HTP.

Diagnosis of this condition can be very difficult since it is so rare. Doctors will need to perform blood tests to check the patient's eosinophil count, and a physical examination will also be done to look for signs of inflammation throughout the body. Treatment is based on the patient's symptoms, and it may include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and prescription pain relievers to effectively manage pain. Some patients might need to take diuretics, and hospitalization has been required in severe cases.

Muscle Aches And Pains

Muscle aches and pains are one of the primary symptoms of eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome, and they are triggered by inflammation. Generally, they are most common in the arms and legs. Most patients experience intense muscle aches and pains in the acute phase of this illness, and the pain may be severe enough that hospitalization is required. At a minimum, patients in the acute phase of the syndrome would certainly need to limit their physical activity. Patients may have trouble walking or performing regular daily activities.

To assess muscle pain, doctors can gently press on various muscle groups to check for tenderness, and they may also passively move the patient's limbs. Anti-inflammatory medications may help reduce muscle pain, and patients might also want to try massage and the use of ice packs or heating pads. During the chronic phase of the condition, some patients may enter remission. Exercising during this period seems to help with overall pain control.

Shortness Of Breath

Shortness of breath could develop in patients whose lungs are affected by eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome. This symptom typically presents during the very early stages of the illness. Patients could notice they feel short of breath after exercising or doing activities such as climbing stairs, and they might also have a cough. Since shortness of breath can have many different causes, individuals experiencing this symptom should see a healthcare provider for an examination.

At the appointment, patients should mention any other symptoms they have, particularly if they feel they may have symptoms associated with eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome. The doctor will perform a heart and lung exam. They will listen to the patient's lungs with a stethoscope, and patients might also need to have lung function tests. Several inhaled medications can be prescribed to reduce shortness of breath, and patients might be advised to make modifications to their activities. If necessary, supplemental oxygen can be provided for patients who are severely short of breath.