Filter Glossary

Behcet’s disease

  • Overview

    Filter

    Have you heard of Behcet’s disease, also known as Behcet’s syndrome? It is a rare condition that causes inflammation in the blood vessels throughout the body. This inflammation can cause various symptoms that may not seem related at first. These symptoms include mouth sores, eye inflammation, skin rashes and lesions, and genital sores.

    Fortunately, medications are available to help manage the symptoms of Behcet’s disease and prevent severe complications like blindness. If you or someone you know may have this condition, you must speak with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

  • Symptoms

    Filter

    Symptoms of Behcet’s disease can differ from person to person and may fluctuate in severity over time. The signs and symptoms experienced will depend on which body areas are impacted.

    Behcet’s illness frequently affects the following areas:
    Mouth. The most typical symptom of Behcet’s disease is uncomfortable mouth sores that resemble canker sores. They start as elevated, oblong mouth sores that swiftly develop into painful ulcers. Even when they do recur, the sores often heal in one to three weeks.
    Skin. On their bodies, some people get lesions that resemble acne. Others experience skin nodules that are red, painful, and elevated, especially on the lower legs.
    Genitals. Both the scrotum and the vulva are susceptible to red, open sores. The sores can leave scars and are typically uncomfortable.
    Eyes. Uveitis, an eye inflammation, commonly affects both eyes and results in redness, discomfort, and blurred vision. Behcet’s illness patients experience cyclical symptoms.
    Joints. In Behcet’s disease patients, the knees are frequently affected by joint swelling and pain. It may also affect the wrists, ankles, or elbows. One to three weeks can pass between symptoms’ onset and independent resolution.
    Vascular system. When a blood clot develops due to inflammation in the veins and arteries, the arms or legs may become red, painful, or swollen. Prominent artery inflammation can result in consequences, including aneurysms and vascular constriction or obstruction.
    Mechanism for digestion. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bleeding are just some indications and symptoms the digestive system can experience.
    Brain. Headache, fever, disorientation, poor balance, and stroke can all be symptoms of inflammation in the brain and nervous system.

  • When to see a doctor

    Filter

    If you observe any unusual signs or symptoms that may indicate Behcet’s disease, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with your doctor. If you have already been diagnosed with the condition, you should see your doctor if you notice any new signs or symptoms.

    Book Appointment
  • Causes

    Filter

    Behcet’s disease is believed to be an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body. Both genetic and environmental factors are thought to contribute to this condition. The symptoms of Behcet’s disease are caused by inflammation of blood vessels, which can affect arteries and veins of varying sizes throughout the body. Several genes are associated with the disease, and some researchers speculate that a virus or bacterium may trigger Behcet’s in individuals with specific susceptible genes.

  • Risk factors

    Filter

    Your risk of developing Behcet’s may be affected by the following factors:
    Age. Behcet’s disease primarily affects men and women in their 20s and 30s, while it can also strike youngsters and older people.
    People from the Middle East and East Asia, including Turkey, Iran, Japan, and China, are more prone to get Behcet’s disease where they dwell.
    Sex. Behcet’s disease can affect both sexes. However, it tends to affect males more severely.
    Genes. Specific genes are linked to an increased risk of Behcet’s disease development.

  • Prevention

    Filter

    Behcet’s disease is a rare autoimmune condition that affects the blood vessels and causes inflammation throughout the body. While there is no known cure for Behcet’s disease, there are several preventative measures that individuals can take to reduce the risk of developing the condition. In this article, we will discuss some of the most effective Behcet’s disease prevention strategies.

    1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle

    Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to prevent Behcet’s disease. This includes eating a balanced and nutrient-rich diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. A healthy lifestyle can help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health, all of which can lower the risk of developing Behcet’s disease.

    2. Manage stress

    Stress can weaken the immune system and trigger inflammation, making it an important factor to consider when trying to prevent Behcet’s disease. Managing stress through techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help reduce the risk of developing Behcet’s disease by promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation.

    3. Avoid exposure to infectious diseases

    Certain infections, such as strep throat or herpes, have been linked to an increased risk of developing Behcet’s disease. Avoiding exposure to infectious diseases by practicing good hygiene, regularly washing hands, and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick can help reduce the risk of developing Behcet’s disease.

    4. Protect against UV radiation

    UV radiation from the sun can trigger inflammation and increase the risk of developing Behcet’s disease. Protecting the skin from UV radiation by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun can help reduce the risk of developing Behcet’s disease.

    5. Monitor for symptoms

    While there is no known cure for Behcet’s disease, early detection and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. Monitoring for symptoms such as oral and genital ulcers, skin rashes, and eye inflammation can help identify Behcet’s disease early and allow for prompt treatment.

    In conclusion, while there is no known cure for Behcet’s disease, there are several preventative measures individuals can take to reduce the risk of developing the condition. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, avoiding exposure to infectious diseases, protecting against UV radiation, and monitoring for symptoms are all effective Behcet’s disease prevention strategies. By incorporating these strategies into their daily lives, individuals can reduce their risk of developing Behcet’s disease and improve overall health and well-being.

  • *Please note that the information provided in the article is for reference purposes only. It is essential to consult a doctor before applying any of the suggestions mentioned.

Content Details

Medical info from Mayo Clinic, for reference only. Visit Hoan My for better advice.

Last updated on: 07/08/2023