1. Reduce Inflammation
Reducing the inflammation associated with myositis--a chronic condition characterized by muscle weakness, extreme fatigue and mobility issues--is one of the ways in which you can manage your disease. Most often, corticosteroids like prednisone are prescribed to reduce inflammation, and are taken orally or administered intravenously. In addition to heavy-duty steroid medications, you can take over-the-counter preparations, such as ibuprofen and aspirin. These medicines, called non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can relieve some of the pain you may be feeling.
Your doctor may also put you on a regimen of immunosuppressant drugs. Myositis is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, meaning that your body's immune system attacks itself as if it were threatened by foreign matter. Immunosuppressant drugs like methotrexate and azathioprine can sometimes treat myositis by slowing down your immune system's attack on healthy muscle tissue.
2. Begin Physical Therapy
Once you have been diagnosed with myositis and have started a treatment plan, your doctor will probably refer you to a physical therapist. While it may seem counterproductive to exercise when you are weak and losing muscle function, staying active is actually a very important way to manage your disease. Symptoms vary from person to person, so your physical therapist will personalize a routine of stretching and exercises that are geared to your abilities. Start off slow, and let your therapist know if you are experiencing pain or other distressing effects when you do your stretches.
3. Practice Good Nutrition
It is important for everyone--but especially people whose health is compromised--to follow a nutritious diet in an effort to remain as healthy as possible. A low-fat, antioxidant-rich diet can keep your heart healthy and your body running as well as it can. Supplements that act as natural anti-inflammatory agents, including fish oil, ginger and turmeric, may be beneficial to you if you have myositis. Glucosamine and extra potassium can maintain healthy muscles. Ask your doctor to recommend a nutritionist who can help you plan a diet that is appropriate for your condition.
4. Address Anger and Stress
Having a chronic disease can be very stressful and provoke lots of anger in some people. Finding a support group through your local hospital or joining your local chapter of The Myositis Association (TMA) are steps to consider when you are trying to find a way to manage the emotional aspects of the disease. Meeting other people who have the same concerns as you or volunteering your time to education and outreach programs may help you come to terms with the challenges you face.
