Muscular Dystrophy - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

The array of muscular dystrophy variations encompasses diverse types, each with distinct symptom onset patterns and age-related manifestations. While certain types emerge during childhood, particularly affecting boys, others remain dormant until adulthood.

While no definitive cure exists for muscular dystrophy, a combination of medications and therapeutic interventions can prove beneficial with respect to the management of symptoms and deceleration of the disease's progression.

Signs and Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy

The hallmark indication of muscular dystrophy resides in progressive muscle weakness. Nevertheless, specific symptoms emerge at varying ages and within distinct muscle groups, contingent on the particular type of muscular dystrophy.

Duchenne Type Muscular Dystrophy

This variant stands as the most prevalent form. It predominantly affects boys, albeit girls can be carriers or mildly impacted. The characteristic signs and symptoms, typically making their appearance during early childhood, encompass the following - 

• Challenges in getting up from sitting or lying positions
• Learning disabilities
• Walking predominantly on the toes
• A distinctive waddling gait
• Frequent instances of falling
• Stunted growth progression
• Development of enlarged calf muscles
• Muscular pain and stiffness
• Impaired running and jumping abilities

Becker Muscular Dystrophy

While sharing similarities with Duchenne muscular dystrophy in symptoms, this variation is characterised by a milder manifestation and slower progression. Typically, symptoms emerge during the teenage years, although they might show up in the mid-20s or even later.

Other Variants of Muscular Dystrophy

Several types of muscular dystrophy are delineated by specific traits or the body regions in which symptoms originate. Here are a few related examples -

• Myotonic: It is typified by an inability of muscles to relax post-contraction. Initial symptoms commonly manifest in facial and neck muscles. Distinctive physical traits include drooping eyelids, elongated and slender faces, and elongated necks resembling that of a swan.
• Facioscapulohumeral (FSHD): This form is characterised by muscle weakness initially affecting the face, hips, and shoulders. An intriguing feature is the appearance of protruding shoulder blades, resembling wings upon raising the arms. While the onset often occurs during the teenage years, it might also transpire during childhood or as late as the age of 50.
• Congenital: Evident at birth or before the age of 2 years, this type impacts both girls and boys. It encompasses a spectrum from gradual progression causing mild disability to rapid advancement leading to severe impairment.
• Limb-Girdle: This type primarily impacts the shoulder and hip muscles. Affected individuals might encounter difficulties in lifting the front part of the foot, resulting in frequent tripping. Onset usually takes place during childhood or adolescence.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Prompt medical consultation is recommended in case of observing signs of muscle weakness such as increased clumsiness or frequent falls, either in oneself or one's child. Recognising and addressing these symptoms at an early stage is pivotal for effective management of muscular dystrophy.

Understanding the Underlying Causes

Specific genes play a key role in producing protective proteins that safeguard muscle fibres. The condition of muscular dystrophy arises when one of these genes carries a flaw.

Each variant of muscular dystrophy stems from a distinct genetic mutation associated with that particular form of the ailment. It’s worth noting that the majority of these mutations are inherited.

Factors Affecting the Risk

Muscular dystrophy affects individuals of all genders, ages, and ethnic backgrounds.

Nonetheless, the most prevalent type, i.e., Duchenne muscular dystrophy, tends to manifest predominantly in young boys. Those with a family history of muscular dystrophy face an elevated risk of either developing the condition themselves or transmitting it to their offspring.

Possible Complications

Progressive weakening of muscles can give rise to several complications such as -

• Impaired Arm Function: Day-to-day tasks can become more taxing if the muscles in the shoulders and arms are impacted.
• Curvature of the Spine (Scoliosis): Weakened muscles may be unable to maintain the spine's natural alignment.
• Contractures: Muscles or tendons around joints might become shortened, which can lead to restricted movement.
• Respiratory Issues: Weakening of muscles involved in breathing could result in the requirement for respiratory support such as a ventilator.
• Mobility Challenges: Walking difficulties may necessitate the eventual use of a wheelchair.
• Swallowing Difficulties: Affected muscles engaged in swallowing might result in nutritional problems and potential aspiration pneumonia. In such cases, the use of feeding tubes might be considered.
• Cardiac Complications: The effectiveness of the heart muscle can be diminished by muscular dystrophy.

How Can the Right Health Insurance Help with Conditions like Muscular Dystrophy?

Muscular Dystrophy falls within the scope of specific health insurance plans designed to address critical illnesses. However, as the inclusions of the critical illness cover vary from one provider to another, make sure to connect with your insurer before opting for a plan. If you opt for a health insurance policy that doesn't encompass critical illnesses, most probably you won't receive coverage for muscular dystrophy.

With the critical illness cover under health insurance plans, a lump sum is provided to the insured individual in case they are diagnosed with a critical illness mentioned in the policy. This sum can be used to cover the hefty medical expenses associated with critical illnesses, loss of income resulting from lack of ability to work, and more. As a result, the patient can solely focus on their recovery without worrying about the expenses

Wrapping Up

Understanding the complex nature of muscular dystrophy involves comprehending its varied forms, symptom progression, and the crucial role of early detection and intervention. By fostering awareness and advancing research efforts, we can strive towards improved management strategies and enhanced quality of life, ultimately leading to a better future for those grappling with muscular dystrophy.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to substitute professional medical advice.

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References

1. Muscular Dystrophy

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