Myositis: All you need to know about the autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and pain in muscles

South Indian film star Samantha Ruth Prabhu recently revealed that she suffers from an auto-immune disease called Myositis, on social media. While Prabhu mentions that she was diagnosed with the disease a few months ago, the actor was hoping to share it with fans after she went into remission, but it was taking longer than usual. In the same social media post, the actor, who is currently undergoing treatment, said her doctors have said that she will make a complete recovery soon.

After the news left many surprised, more recently, Bollywood filmmaker Vikram Bhatt offered his support to the actor and even spoke about how he has also been dealing with an autoimmune disease called Fibromyalgia for the last 18 years. Even as the buzz is still on about the kind of treatment Prabhu is undergoing for the condition, many people are clueless because they have heard about the condition for the first time. According to city experts, Myositis is a group of rare conditions that causes inflammation, weakness, swelling and pain in the muscles. It is also a condition that can happen to people at any age and can take a toll on one's overall wellbeing.

Mid-day Online spoke to Dr Vikrant Shah, consulting physician, intensivist, and infectious disease specialist, Zen Multispecialty Hospital in Chembur and Dr Manish Pendse, senior consultant physician, Medicover Hospitals in Navi Mumbai to understand more about the bone condition. They not only stress on the need for awareness but also include anti-inflammatory foods in one's diet.

What is myositis?

Shah: Myositis is any condition that invites inflammation in muscles. People suffering from the condition commonly experience weakness, swelling, and pain. It can occur to anyone at any age. Moreover, it is also a progressive condition that will take a toll on one's overall well-being.

Pendse: Myositis means a group of rare conditions leading to muscle weakness, tiredness, and unbearable pain. The word myositis indicates inflammation in one's muscles. If something is inflamed, it is bound to get swollen but not many people are aware of this condition.

Can people identify myositis themselves or can it be only diagnosed by a doctor?

Shah: Antinuclear antibody test (ANA) can be done to confirm the diagnosis of this condition. ENA (extractable nuclear antigens) and the anti-Jo-1 test can also be helpful in detecting this condition.

Pendse: Your doctor will take down your history and conduct a series of tests to confirm the diagnosis of this condition. It will be imperative for you to follow the guidelines given by the doctor only.

What are the causes of myositis?

Shah: Certain medications, vigorous exercise causing muscle pain, alcohol and drugs can lead to the onset of this condition. Even the common cold, HIV, and flu can lead to this condition. However, injury and infections are the main culprits behind it.

Pendse: The exact cause behind the occurrence of this condition is not clear yet. According to the evidence available, this condition can be seen due to other inflammatory conditions such as lupus or arthritis.

Are there different types of myositis?

Shah: Juvenile myositis (JM) is commonly seen in children under 18 years. It is seen in the form of skin rashes and muscle weakness. Inclusion-body myositis is common in men over 50 years old when compared to women. It tends to begin with muscle weakness in the wrists and fingers and thigh muscles.

Pendse: Toxic myositis happens due to prescribed medications and illicit drugs. Polymyositis (PM) initiates muscle weakness in the muscles that are near the trunk of the body.

Which age group is more prone to getting myositis? Is it seen more in any particular type of body?

Shah: Myositis is seen in people of any age, including children. The main muscles to be affected in this condition are around the shoulders, hips, and thighs.

Pendse: This condition is commonly seen in children, adults, and older people. But, there are different types of myositis that affect different age groups and gender. It is better to speak to the doctor and get all your doubts cleared.

Can people prevent the onset of this condition by consuming certain kinds of food?

Shah: It will be imperative for you to stick to a well-balanced diet. Avoid junk, spicy, oily, canned, and processed foods. Cut down on smoking, alcohol, pizza, pasta, French fries, and bakery items that lead to pain and inflammation. Eat fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lentils, and legumes.

Pendse: One should eat anti-inflammatory foods to prevent this condition. Go for blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Include fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardine. Broccoli, spinach, avocado, green tea, mushroom, and grapes can also do the trick. These foods will lower inflammation in the body and boost immunity.

What are the precautions that people can take in general?

Shah: So, protective padding over an injured muscle will be helpful in keeping this condition at bay. Stretching can also prevent muscle strain, as well as wearing appropriate protective equipment can do the trick too.

Pendse: Do not do any high-intensity activities or over-exercise that can lead to muscle weakness and pain. Do not ignore any kind of pain and seek timely intervention. Try to maintain an optimum weight.

What is the kind of treatment that people have to undertake? Do they have to follow a particular lifestyle post-diagnosis?

Shah: Along with appropriate medication, one will also have to take physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and exercise on a daily basis. Try to follow a healthy lifestyle. Do not take your health lightly.

Pendse: Antibiotics and drugs that suppress the immune system are prescribed to the patient. Even some patients will be given steroids if their condition is serious.

Does Covid-19 have any kind of bearing on the condition?

Shah: Covid has not only led to heart problems but even myositis. It can also raise one's risk of myositis as it induces a systemic inflammatory response. One will encounter symptoms such as difficulty in walking, tiredness, tripping, and loss of balance.

Pendse: Covid-19 can induce myositis as it causes inflammation in the body and can lead to infection of the muscle. One will have to be extremely careful after Covid infection and take utmost care of himself/ herself.

Do people with other bone conditions need to take special care in case of such a condition?

Shah: Get enough vitamin D by exposing yourself to sunlight early in the morning. Take supplements only recommended by the doctor. It is better to exercise every day without fail.

Pendse: One needs to stick to a well-balanced lifestyle. Stay healthy, maintain optimum weight, and exercise daily. It is better to speak to the doctor and ensure you are taking all the measures to prevent any further issues.

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