Muscular dystrophy – facts and videos

What is muscular dystrophy?

It is a genetic , muscular disorder characterized by slow progressive wasting of muscles . Victims usually get it from one or both parents, but there have been cases of spontaneous mutation, too. the prognosis depends on the type and progression.

Symptoms: Clumsiness , difficulty in walking and/or standing and respiratory trouble.

Affected group: All the ages groups. some types noticed in infancy, others in childhood or even in middle-aged adults. Reportedly affects one in 3,500 children in India.

Diagnosis: Blood test (for enzyme creatine kinase) and biopsy of muscle.

Fallout: Progressive disability and deformity, decreasing mobility, osteoporosis, obesity, respiratory failure,, cardiovascular complications.

Treatment: Incurable, but can be managed with exercise, physiotherapy, speech therapy and physical aids such as wheelchair and leg braces. Surgery to correct deformities and cardiovascular aids such as ventilation assistors and pacemakers also help.