Overview
Behcet's disease is a rare disorder that causes inflammation of blood vessels throughout the body. The disease can lead to various signs and symptoms, including mouth sores, eye inflammation, skin rashes, and genital sores. It can affect people of all ages, but is more common in men in their 20s and 30s. The exact cause of Behcet's disease is not known, but it is believed to be related to genetic and environmental factors. Complications can arise if the condition is left untreated, such as blindness from untreated uveitis. Regular visits to an eye specialist are recommended for those with eye symptoms.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of Behcet's disease can include mouth sores, eye inflammation, skin rashes and lesions, and genital sores. The disease can affect blood vessels, the digestive system, the brain, and other parts of the body, causing various signs and symptoms such as redness, pain, swelling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bleeding, headache, fever, disorientation, poor balance, and stroke. Symptoms can vary from person to person and may come and go or become less severe over time.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing Behcet's disease include:
- Age: Behcet's disease commonly affects men and women in their 20s and 30s, though children and older adults also can develop the condition.
- Genetic predisposition: Having certain genes increases the risk of developing Behcet's disease.
- Geographic location: People from countries in the Middle East and East Asia, including Turkey, Iran, Japan, and China, are more likely to develop Behcet's disease.
- Sex: Although Behcet's disease occurs in both men and women, it is usually more severe in men.
Development
Behcet's disease develops due to inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis) throughout the body. The condition can involve arteries and veins of all sizes, damaging them throughout the body. The signs and symptoms depend on which parts of the body are affected. The disease can lead to numerous signs and symptoms that may seem unrelated at first, such as mouth sores, eye inflammation, skin rashes and lesions, and genital sores. Several genes have been found to be associated with the disease, and researchers believe that a virus or bacterium can trigger Behcet's disease in people who have certain genes that make them susceptible to the condition.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you suspect Behcet's disease if you or your child have signs and symptoms that might indicate the condition. Behcet's disease symptoms can vary from person to person and can come and go or become less severe over time. Common areas affected by the disease include the mouth, eyes, skin, and genitals. If any of these areas are affected, especially with mouth sores, eye inflammation, skin rashes, or genital sores, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. Additionally, seek medical attention if the rash spreads to one or both eyes, becomes very warm or tender, or is accompanied by more serious symptoms like dizziness, confusion, fast heartbeat, fever, or a stiff neck.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of Behcet's disease include untreated uveitis leading to decreased vision or blindness, inflammation in the brain and nervous system causing headache, fever, disorientation, poor balance, or stroke, and complications from inflammation in the blood vessels such as aneurysms, narrowing, or blockage of the vessels.
Treatment
Treatments for Behcet's disease involve managing symptoms and preventing complications. Medications are often used to reduce inflammation, pain, and other signs of the disease. Treatment options may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications: These drugs, such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants, help reduce inflammation and quiet the immune system's response.
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications can help alleviate pain caused by mouth sores, genital sores, or joint inflammation.
- Topical treatments: For mouth sores, your doctor may recommend rinsing with saltwater or applying a medicated mouthwash containing hydrocortisone.
- Eye care: For eye inflammation, your doctor may prescribe eye drops or ointments to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Regular visits to an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) are important to monitor the condition and prevent vision loss.
- Joint care: For joint inflammation, medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids can help alleviate pain and swelling.
- Blood vessel care: To prevent blood clots and other complications related to blood vessel inflammation, your doctor may prescribe blood thinners or other medications.
- Dietary changes: In some cases, modifying your diet may help manage digestive symptoms. Your healthcare provider can offer guidance on dietary adjustments. It's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific symptoms and needs.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for Behcet's disease, you should:
- Make a list of your symptoms, including when they began and how severe they are.
- Gather information about your personal history, including major stresses and recent life changes.
- Create a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take, including doses.
- Compile a list of questions to ask your doctor, such as the cause of your symptoms, recommended tests, and treatment options.
- Bring any previous medical records or scans relevant to your condition.
- Consider bringing a family member or friend to help remember the information provided during the appointment. Remember to address any pre-appointment restrictions and dietary considerations with your healthcare provider when scheduling the appointment.