It can even be fatal.
This article explains EMS and its symptoms, as well as its potential causes.
It also discusses how eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome is diagnosed and the treatment options.
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The epidemic eventually included 1,500 people and caused 37 deaths.
The NIH advises using 5-HTP with caution.
Older age also appears to make the risk of developing EMS higher.
Symptoms tend to begin suddenly and range from mild to severe.
The condition can cause life-threatening complications and may result in death.
Eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome goes through acute and chronic phases that share symptoms of muscle pain and fatigue.
The skin of those affected may swell, thicken, or harden as they develop eosinophilic fasciitis.
People who have this condition over a long time may also develop impaired function in affected joints.
During the chronic phase, symptoms appear to flare.
They may act up for a period of time and then go into remission.
Can High Eosinophils Cause Hair Loss?
How is Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome Diagnosed?
The eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome diagnosis is difficult, and there are no available tests used to confirm EMS.
Treatment
The most important step in treating EMS is discontinuing the supplement that triggered it.
In people with mild symptoms, this is sometimes all that is necessary.
For most people, however, it is not enough to simply stop taking the supplement.
Lifestyle Changes
People living with eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome may need to make lifestyle changes.
Be sure to discuss diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes with your healthcare provider.
Prognosis
For most people, EMS is a chronic condition.
Around 21% reported improvement, but 65% said their symptoms were either unchanged or worse.
Symptoms most likely to linger include muscle pain, joint pain, fatigue, and cognitive impairment.
A contaminant present in this supplement is believed to have been responsible for the 1989 outbreak.
A few other related supplements have also been implicated in the disease.
People with EMS experience symptoms such as severe muscle pain, fatigue, and cognitive problems.
For most people, the condition is chronic and symptoms will continue for years after onset.
Some medications such as corticosteroids may help people with EMS.
Lifestyle changes can also help.
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