• Inflammation of the muscles and skin most often affecting the shoulders, pelvis and neck
• May also involve other organs such as the esophagus, lungs and heart
• Symptoms may include muscle weakness and pain, violet-colored or dusky red rash and swelling around the eyes
• Cause unknown
• Cannot be spread from person to person
• Affects males and females but more common in females
• Can occur at any age but more common in school aged children and middle age to elderly adults
• May be mild without symptoms to severe and debilitating
• May become life threatening

• Use sunscreen regularly
• Get plenty of rest; do not overexert yourself
• Moderate exercise regularly

FOR ITCHING

• Avoid items or situations that cause you to itch
• Moisturize daily
• Use creams, lotions or gels that soothe and cool the skin
• Avoid scratching
• Cut fingernails short, and consider wearing gloves at night to prevent scratching
• Use mild, fragrance free soap and laundry detergent
• Cover area with cold wet bandages or take a cool bath
• Over-the-counter medicines (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Hydrocortisone cream
  • Diphenhydramine