Behcet's syndrome, a disease caused by an overactive immune system

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Definition

What is Behcet's syndrome?

Behcet's syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the blood vessels. This disease occurs when the immune system becomes overactive and attacks healthy parts of the body. This disease can affect the blood vessels, mouth, genitals, eyes, joints, skin, brain and nerves.

How common is Behcet's syndrome?

Behcet's syndrome is a disease that generally affects both men and women in young adulthood. You can limit your risk of getting this disease by reducing risk factors. Always consult a doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of Behcet's syndrome?

Behcet's disease affects everyone in different ways because signs and symptoms depend on the area affected. Some of the signs and symptoms of Behcet's syndrome are:

• Mouth pain This pain usually goes away within 1-3 weeks, although it can recur at any time.
• Skin sores or rashes appear.
• Swollen and tender nodules, especially on the skin of the lower legs.
• Pain in the genital area. Pain generally occurs in the scrotum or vulva. Pain in the genitals is usually painful and may leave scars.
• Behcet's disease may cause eye inflammation, pain and blurred vision in one or both eyes that may alternate.
• Swelling and pain in the joints often affects the knees, ankles, elbows, or wrists.
• Inflammation of the blood vessels may appear.
• Behcet's disease may cause a variety of signs and symptoms that affect the digestive system, including stomach upset and diarrhea.
• Behcet's disease may cause inflammation of the brain and nervous system resulting in headache, fever, disorientation, poor balance or stroke.

There may still be some signs or symptoms not listed above. If you are worried about your symptoms, please consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

When should I see a doctor?

Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any unusual signs and symptoms listed above.

Cause

What causes Behcet's syndrome?

Until now, the cause of this disease is unknown. However, experts estimate that genetic factors can influence this condition.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for Behcet's syndrome?

Some of the things that can increase a person to develop Behcet's syndrome are:

• Age. Behcet's disease generally affects both men and women in their 20s and 30s.
• Gender. Men are twice as likely to develop Behcet's syndrome than women.
• Gen. Having certain genes that can increase your risk of developing Behcet's syndrome.

Having no risk factors doesn't mean you can't get sick. These factors are for reference only. You will need to consult a specialist doctor for more details.

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for Behcet's syndrome?

Medication can help reduce most symptoms. Your doctor can prescribe medication to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. Some of the medications that doctors commonly prescribe to help treat Behcet's syndrome are:

• Medicines to slow down the reaction of the immune system
• Antibiotic mouthwash for mouth pain
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for joint pain
• Blood thinners to stop blood clots from forming.

In addition, the doctor will also recommend visiting an eye doctor (ophtalmologist) to treat eye problems.

What are the usual tests for Behcet's syndrome?

The doctor makes a diagnosis based on a physical examination and blood tests to rule out other diseases and check your general health. Several tests will show inflammation. However, there is no specific test to prove the presence of Behcet's disease.

The doctor may also do a pathergy test. In this test, the skin of the forearm is pricked with a needle and then checked for reactions (reddening).

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat Behcet's syndrome?

Some of the lifestyle and home remedies that may help treat Behcet's syndrome are:

• Use the medication as directed so that it can prevent serious complications such as eye problems.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms start to worry you.
• Talk to your doctor before taking herbal remedies. Some people are incompatible with prescription drugs.
• Contact a doctor immediately if vision is affected.
• Call your doctor if you have trouble with medication. Side effects can include stomach upset, feeling unwell, mouth sores, high blood pressure, difficulty sleeping, lethargy, seizures, acne, persistent pain, stretch marks, blurred vision.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.