How long can you live with dermatomyositis?

  Survival of patients with dermatomyositis cannot be generalized and is related to many factors such as age at onset, physical condition, and underlying disease.  In general, dermatomyositis can occur at any age and in any population, and its onset may be related to autoimmune, infections, tumors, medications, and genetic factors. In most patients, the disease progresses slowly, with skin damage and muscle weakness as the main manifestations, but in more severe cases, it may also involve respiratory muscles and respiratory failure, or even other organs, such as damage to the lungs, heart and kidneys. Under normal circumstances, if patients are diagnosed early and treated reasonably, without complications, they can generally recover gradually, without affecting their life expectancy, and can survive for a long time. However, if the patient is not treated effectively, or if repeated attacks lead to the occurrence of serious complications, the patient’s life can be endangered. In particular, elderly patients, patients with tumors or those with significant lung, heart, or gastrointestinal tract involvement should be alerted to the fact that most have a poor prognosis and cannot survive normally.  It is recommended that after developing dermatomyositis, one must actively treat the disease and adjust the mindset to build confidence to overcome the disease and avoid negative emotions of negativity and fear. In addition, insisting on muscle exercise and good skin care can help promote recovery.