How To Manage Dermatomyositis Effectively

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are medications that reduce inflammation, redness, and itching. One of the most popular corticosteroids used for patients with dermatomyositis is prednisone. This medication can control symptoms quickly and effectively. However, patients using prednisone or similar medications should remain vigilant for potential side effects, which include an increased risk of infection, sore throat, fever, frequent urination, increased thirst, and blurry vision. Some patients may experience rare side effects such as mood swings, depression, confusion, and hives. Patients who take corticosteroids for a long time may gain weight, and they may have indigestion. To reduce the side effects of these medications, patients are sometimes given with other medicines called corticosteroid-sparing agents, which allow patients to take a lower steroid dose. For patients with dermatomyositis, methotrexate and azathioprine are commonly prescribed corticosteroid-sparing agents.

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Speech Therapy

Speech therapy can be useful for children and adults with dermatomyositis. Doctors generally recommend speech therapy for patients with dermatomyositis that creates swallowing difficulties. A speech therapist, also known as a speech-language pathologist, can help patients who have difficulty with all aspects of feeding, including eating, swallowing, and drooling. Speech-language pathologists help patients with swallowing and feeding through the use of facial massage, and they will also show the patient exercises they can use to strengthen the muscles of their jaw, mouth, tongue, and lips. The therapist may encourage the patient to try foods with various textures during a therapy session, as this can increase the patient's awareness while eating and swallowing. Speech therapy takes time and dedication from both the therapist and patient, and sessions may continue for months or even years. For patients with dermatomyositis, finding a speech-language pathologist who has experience in treating this condition is essential. The patient's medical team may be able to recommend an appropriate professional.

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