Behçet's Disease

This disease was first described by the Turkish dermatologist Hulusi Behçet. It causes canker-like sores in the mouth and, likewise, open sores in the genital area. It can cause pimple-like lesions and inflammation of the hair follicles on the skin. It can affect the joints and eyes, and it can also affect blood vessels. Nerve involvement is rare, but when it occurs, the course of the disease is severe.

What Are the Symptoms of Behçet's Disease?

The symptoms of Behçet's disease are quite varied, and the severity of the disease differs from person to person. The most common symptoms include recurrent mouth ulcers (canker sores), genital ulcers, skin rashes and eye inflammation. These symptoms can come and go and sometimes last for weeks or months.

Diagnosis is made through a detailed evaluation of the symptoms and the patient's medical history. There is no specific test for Behçet's disease, so the diagnosis is usually made by ruling out other possible conditions.

Treatment Options for Behçet's Disease

There is no definitive cure for Behçet's disease, but various treatment options are available to control symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment usually includes anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressive drugs to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. Topical treatments may also be used for ulcers in the mouth and genital area.

Mouth and genital ulcers: For sores in the mouth or genital area, topical steroids, pain relievers or antibiotics may be used. In more severe cases, systemic steroids or immunosuppressive drugs may be needed.

Eye inflammation (uveitis): For uveitis, corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs or antibiotics may be used. In some cases, surgery may be needed.

Lifestyle Changes for Behçet's Disease

People with Behçet's disease have also found that the following lifestyle changes can help them manage their symptoms:

Avoid smoking. Smoking can worsen the symptoms of Behçet's disease. Drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration can make mouth ulcers worse. Get enough rest. Fatigue can contribute to the formation of mouth ulcers. Reduce stress. Stress can weaken the immune system and worsen symptoms. Behçet's disease is a lifelong condition, but with appropriate treatment, symptoms can be kept under control and complications can be prevented.

Living with Behçet's disease means managing symptoms and avoiding triggers. Avoiding sun exposure, not smoking and managing stress can help control the disease. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are also important.