Behcet’s syndrome is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the veins and blood vessels. The exact trigger is unknown, but researchers believe that genetic markers and environmental factors may increase the risk. Behcets disease is not contagious but is thought to run in families. The most common symptoms of Behcets syndrome include genital and mouth sores, inflammation of certain areas of the eyes, and inflammation of the musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal systems. In men, mouth sores are characterized by a red border and make eating difficult. Most people will get a mouth sore after about 10 to 14 days. In women, genital sores may appear on the scrotum or vulva. These sores are often painful and will not disappear on their own.
Treatments for the condition vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the overall health. Although there are no known cures for Behcets, some treatments have been shown to help relieve symptoms and may even put into remission for a period of time. Behcets symptoms do not have any definite onset and are often accompanied by other symptoms.
While there is no known cure for Behcet’s syndrome, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment improve the prognosis and overall health of the sufferer. Because the disease affects various areas of the body, a patient may need to see several specialists, but doctors usually coordinate treatment based on the patient’s symptoms and lab tests. Their goal is to keep the inflammation under control and the condition in remission. If this is not possible, the patient may need to undergo surgery. Medication for Behcets syndrome may include oral corticosteroids or topical anesthetics. Some of these medications will relieve mouth sores. In severe cases, corticosteroids or a combination of them are needed to prevent or control the inflammation and pain. Patients taking corticosteroids may develop side effects such as persistent heartburn, high blood pressure, and bone thinning. There are no cures for Behcets syndrome, but medications can help relieve symptoms and control the condition.
