Myositis
Inflammation of the muscles that causes weakness.
Myositis: what it is
Myositis means inflammation of the muscles. In inflammatory myositis, including polymyositis and dermatomyositis, the immune system attacks the muscles and causes weakness, not just pain.
Dermatomyositis also causes a typical skin rash. Muscle weakness that develops over weeks to months needs a proper check.
Myositis: common signs
- Weakness of the muscles of the shoulders, upper arms, hips and thighs
- Difficulty climbing stairs, getting up from a chair, or lifting the arms to comb the hair
- Muscle aching or tenderness
- A purplish rash on the eyelids, or a rash over the knuckles, elbows and knees
- Tiredness, a hoarse voice or trouble swallowing
- Breathlessness, if the lungs are involved
Myositis: how a rheumatologist helps
Confirming the diagnosis with blood tests such as creatine kinase (CK), muscle tests (EMG, MRI) and sometimes a muscle biopsy, and ruling out other causes of weak muscles.
Treating with medicines that calm the immune system, together with physiotherapy to rebuild strength.
Checking the lungs, swallowing and other organs, and watching for side effects.
- Difficulty swallowing, or choking on food
- Breathlessness
- Dark, tea-coloured urine with severe muscle pain
- Sudden, marked weakness
In an emergency call 1122 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Related conditions
Plan your visit
See what to bring to your first visit, then choose a clinic consultation in Rawalpindi or a video consultation.
This page is general information for awareness. It is not a diagnosis or treatment advice.