MELAS syndrome is a rare and life-threatening medical condition caused by mitochondrial DNA mutations. Symptoms include chronic headaches, seizures, muscle fatigue, and dementia. There is no cure, but drugs and therapy can provide relief from some symptoms. The disease is primarily inherited from mothers who carry mutated genetic material. Exercise, medications, supplements, and psychotherapy can help people suppress or delay some symptoms. Emotional and psychological relief can be found through counseling and group therapy.
MELAS syndrome, which stands for mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke, is a rare but life-threatening medical condition that usually occurs in children and adolescents, although symptoms occasionally emerge later in life. Researchers and doctors believe the disorder is related to mitochondrial DNA mutations. Individuals with MELAS syndrome are prone to chronic headaches, seizures, muscle fatigue, and dementia. There is no known cure for the disease, but drugs and therapy have shown promise in providing relief from some symptoms and delaying the onset of debilitating muscle and brain problems.
Doctors understand the effects of MELAS syndrome, although the exact causes of the disease are still largely a mystery. There is strong evidence to suggest that the syndrome is primarily inherited from mothers who carry mutated genetic material. Genetic mutations in an individual’s mitochondrial DNA can cause significant damage to muscle, brain, and nervous system tissue over time, usually resulting in strokes and permanent disabilities. Lactic acid buildups in the blood result from damaged or deficient proteins created by mutated mitochondria.
The first recognizable symptoms of MELAS syndrome include frequent headaches, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness and concentration problems. As the disease worsens, an individual may experience vision changes, seizures, and difficulty controlling motor movements. The latter stages of the condition often result in muscle paralysis, hearing and vision loss, dementia, stroke, and ultimately death. A person who believes they have symptoms related to MELAS syndrome should immediately seek professional advice from a qualified physician, who can make a correct diagnosis and initiate treatment.
MELAS syndrome cannot be cured, although exercise, medications, supplements and psychotherapy can help people suppress or delay some of their symptoms and learn to cope with their condition. Many people are able to maintain stronger muscles and promote healthy blood flow by engaging in regular activity and eating healthy foods. Clinical research suggests that vitamins and amino acids such as riboflavin and nicotinamide are helpful in preventing certain mitochondrial enzymes from causing widespread damage. Medications that treat certain symptoms, such as pain relievers for headaches and body aches, can make life more comfortable for people with MELAS syndrome.
People often find emotional and psychological relief from the disease by talking to counselors and attending group therapy sessions with other afflicted individuals. Counselors and psychologists give people a chance to talk about their struggles, discuss their hopes, and design strategies to achieve their goals. The support of fellow sufferers, friends, and family members is vital in learning to enjoy life despite debilitating circumstances.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
