Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome is an inherited neurological disease that affects the nerves and muscles in the limbs, causing weakness and loss of function. It is not life-threatening but can cause extreme disability. Treatment may involve surgery, physical therapy, and support from family and friends.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome is a neurological disease that progresses from the nervous system to the muscles of the body. Sufferers of this syndrome will gradually lose the use of their limbs over time. Your arms, hands, legs and feet will no longer be able to function normally. The nerves in their limbs begin to deteriorate and the muscles stop working due to lack of stimulation from the nerves.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome is an inherited disease that can be passed down from generation to generation. In America it affects about 150,000 people. It is a worldwide ailment that can affect anyone. The disease was discovered in 1886 by three physicians, Jean-Martin Charcot, Pierre Marie and Howard Henry Tooth.
Although in some cases, Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome can cause extreme disability, it is not a life-threatening disease. It does not affect normal brain function. Although the severity of the symptoms of this condition varies, the nature of the symptoms is very similar in most cases.
The first symptoms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth are usually seen in the feet. Sufferers usually experience high arching of the foot. In some cases, very flat feet can also be a symptom of the disorder. Hammer toes and toe abnormalities may be seen as the disease progresses.
Because Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome is a degenerative disease, the muscles in the limbs gradually weaken. The sufferer will begin to have difficulty walking and general movement. His balance will be disoriented and he will have difficulty running. Your hand muscles will start to weaken and simple tasks like opening a door will become difficult.
As nerve function is lost in the extremities of the limbs, sufferers may also find that they lose perception of sensory nerves. For this reason, burns or burns may occur on the hands or feet without the sufferer being aware of it. Sufferers may also begin to develop blisters, ulcers, and swellings on their hands and feet.
If symptoms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth are present, tests will be conducted by a neurologist. A physical exam and tests will be done to confirm the disease. These may include electrodiagnostic tests which should diagnose the condition. Tests may also be done to diagnose genetic causes.
Treatment for Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome is done by a variety of medical specialists. A podiatrist will treat foot problems. An orthopedic surgeon will be needed if there are necessary leg braces. Physical therapy may also be needed to take care of the leg muscles and help them strengthen.
Surgical treatment is also an option and may include nailing the toes, lowering the arches of the feet, and taping the ankle joints for added strength. The benefits of surgery must be weighed against the risks and inconveniences involved to determine if it is necessary. Friends and family are the greatest support a person with Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome can have.
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