Muscular dystrophy is an inherited condition that causes progressive deterioration of the muscles, leading to weakness and disability. Diagnosis occurs after muscle weakness and there is no cure, but physiotherapy can help prevent deformities.
Muscular dystrophy is an inherited condition that affects the muscles in the body. There are 20 different types of this condition and they all cause progressive deterioration of the muscles, leading to weakness and disability. The most common type of muscular dystrophy is called Duchenne dystrophy. Other common types include miotic dystrophy, limb girdle dystrophy, and facioscapulohumeral dystrophy.
The age at which dystrophy appears depends on the type of muscular dystrophy. This condition can strike anytime from birth up to about 40 years of age. It is a genetic condition, meaning it is inherited through abnormal genes from one’s parents. Duchenne dystrophy occurs only in boys, but can be passed on from a mother who carries the abnormal gene. With myotic dystrophy, there is a chance that half of a couple’s children will be affected.
The main symptom of muscular dystrophy is a gradual weakening of the muscles. Muscles deteriorate to such an extent that immobility eventually occurs. This condition affects the muscles of the body and, in some cases, the facial muscles. The time scale of deterioration is usually very slow, but in some cases it is severe enough to shorten life expectancy.
Diagnosis usually occurs after the onset of muscle weakness. Blood tests are needed to identify the abnormal gene and identify when the muscle wasting has occurred. Ultrasound and electrocardiographic examinations are also performed. These test for heart damage and heart irregularities. Tests for electrical muscle activity are also common.
There are some major complications that can occur due to muscular dystrophy. These can include a serious chest infection which can lead to breathing difficulties. There might also be the possibility of curvature of the spine due to weakening of the muscles. The heart muscle can also weaken.
There is no cure or treatment for muscular dystrophy. Physiotherapy can help prevent any deformities in the later stages of the disease. People who carry the abnormal gene should seek the advice of a doctor if they are considering having children. Tests can identify any abnormalities in the early stages of pregnancy and can show whether the gene is present in the unborn baby.
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