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Early warning signs of 6 types of muscular dystrophy

Early warning signs of 6 types of muscular dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy refers to more than 30 types of genetic disorders that may damage or weaken muscles over time. It generally occurs due to a deficiency of the protein “dystrophin,” which is crucial for muscle function. The signs and symptoms may vary depending on the type of MD, condition, and its severity in every affected individual. This article aims to identify six types of muscular dystrophy disorders and their early warning signs.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
DMD is one of the most common and chronic types of muscular dystrophy. Its onset typically occurs in early childhood, between the ages of 2 and 3. The condition typically affects boys, although there have been rare occurrences among girls as well. Due to its severity, people living with this health condition tend to have a shorter life expectancy. Common symptoms of DMD include:

  • Trouble walking, running, or jumping
  • Loss of reflexes
  • Difficulty standing up
  • Poor posture
  • Waddling gait
  • Bone thinning
  • Abnormal curvature of the spine (scoliosis)
  • Learning differences
  • Delayed growth
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Lung and heart weakness

Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD)
BMD is a rare genetic disorder that causes muscle weakness and degeneration over time. Symptoms generally begin to develop between the ages of 5 and 15. Men are at the highest risk of inheriting this condition. Symptoms may include:

  • Muscle weakness (generally in the arms and legs)
  • Walking on the toes
  • Frequent falls
  • Muscle cramps
  • Trouble getting up from the floor
  • Difficulty walking up the stairs
  • Low tolerance for exercise
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of balance and coordination

Congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD)
Congenital muscular dystrophy is a genetic muscle disorder that affects one right from birth or develops in the early stages of infancy. It is typically attributed to the loss of glycoproteins that impact muscle function and their ability to repair damage.

Those with congenital muscular dystrophy may experience symptoms such as:

  • Low levels of spontaneous movement (kicking or waving)
  • Low muscle tone (hypotonia)
  • Muscle weakness
  • Poor muscle control
  • Inability to sit or stand without support
  • Scoliosis
  • Foot deformities
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Respiratory problems
  • Vision problems
  • Speech problems
  • Learning differences

Myotonic dystrophy
Myotonic dystrophy leads to progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Not only can this condition affect muscle movement, but it may also impact electrical activity in the heart. In some cases, it may also lead to diabetes, hormonal changes, reproductive problems, or tumor growth. The most commonly noticed symptoms of myotonic dystrophy include:

  • Drooping muscles in the face
  • Difficulty lifting the neck (due to weakened muscles)
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Droopy eyelids
  • Early balding (receding hairline)
  • Cataracts
  • Slow and irregular heartbeat (cardiac arrhythmia)
  • Increased sweating
  • Slurred speech
  • Bowel problems (like diarrhea, constipation, or incontinence)
  • Behavioral problems
  • Excessive sleepiness and tiredness

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD)
This genetic disorder affects the muscles of the face, shoulder blades, and upper arms. According to research, most cases of FSHD result from genetic mutations of the double homeobox protein four gene ( DUX4 ). Symptoms of this condition usually begin before the age of 20. While the condition progresses slowly, symptom severity may be highly variable among patients. Symptoms of FSHD may include:

  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing
  • Slanted shoulders
  • The crooked appearance of the mouth
  • Shoulder blades begin to appear wing-like
  • Abdominal muscle weakness
  • Facial weakness (making it difficult to smile or sip from a straw)
  • Mild hearing loss
  • Pain and inflammation
  • Weakness in the lower legs

Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD)
This rare genetic condition affects people of all genders. It causes muscle weakness around the eyelids and the throat, affecting vision, swallowing, and talking. Over time, this weakness may also extend to the neck and shoulders. Symptoms generally begin to show between the ages of 40 and 60. Some symptoms of OPMD include:

  • Drooping eyelids
  • Vision problems
  • Trouble swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Voice changes
  • Heart problems
  • Difficulty walking
  • Tongue shrinking
  • Pooling of saliva
  • Weakness in the legs and arms

Muscular dystrophy affects every person differently. Complications also depend on the type and severity of the disorder. There is no cure for these conditions. However, early diagnosis may help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Diagnostic tests may include blood testing, genetic testing, electromyography, neurological physical exam, muscle biopsy, cardiac testing, MRIs, ultrasounds, and exercise assessments.

Once diagnosed, treatment is aimed at symptom management and may include physical, respiratory, speech, and/or occupational therapy, assisted ventilation, or surgery.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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11 possible signs of dental implant failure

Dental implants are a remarkable solution for those seeking to restore their smile and oral function. Their benefits include retaining bone structure, freedom from food restrictions, effective speech and communication, and a complete smile. However, like any medical procedure, complications can arise. A spectrum of signs might signal a potential issue with dental implants. Therefore, it's essential to recognize the following early signs of possible problems to ensure the longevity and efficacy of dental implants. Persistent pain and discomfort Beyond post-operative discomfort, an intensifying pain can indicate an underlying issue. This pain may manifest as a lingering ache, sharp spasms, or even a throbbing sensation. If the pain persists or worsens over time, it is vital to seek a professional assessment. This could indicate early inflammation, nerve involvement, or implant instability. Swelling and inflammation It's normal to experience some mild swelling and inflammation after a dental implant procedure. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it may indicate an underlying issue. When brushing, you may notice redness, swelling, or bleeding of the gums around the implant site. It's important to keep a close eye on these symptoms. Prolonged inflammation could be a sign of healing, infection, or problems with implant integration. Loose or wobbly implant Dental implants rely on osseointegration, where they fuse with the jawbone. If an implant feels unstable or mobile, it may indicate integration issues or potential structural concerns. Early intervention can prevent implant failure and the need for more extensive corrective procedures. A loose implant could indicate compromised bone density, improper placement, or an infection affecting the integration process. Difficulty in chewing or biting Dental implants restore the ability to chew and bite comfortably; difficulties in these activities might indicate a problem. It could stem from issues with the implant's integration or complications related to the prosthetic tooth. An in-depth examination is essential to pinpoint the cause. Discomfort or pain while eating could be due to various factors, including misalignment, implant fracture, or issues with the prosthetic tooth. Unusual odor or taste The presence of an unpleasant or abnormal odor or taste near the implant site can signify an underlying issue, potentially an infection. Ignoring this symptom may lead to severe complications. Swift, professional intervention is necessary to diagnose and treat the root cause. A foul odor or taste could indicate bacterial growth or infection in the implant area, which requires immediate attention. Receding gums around the implant area Healthy gum tissue should snugly envelop the base of a dental implant. When gums start to recede, exposing more of the implant than usual may indicate gum disease or issues with the implant itself. Regular check-ups with a dental professional can help monitor gum health. If left untreated, receding gums can lead to further complications, including potential implant exposure or bone loss. Pus or discharge The presence of pus or discharge around the implant site is a definitive sign of infection. This must not be disregarded, as untreated infections can have severe consequences. Immediate dental care is critical to manage the infection and prevent further complications. Pus or discharge indicates a localized infection, which, if not addressed promptly, can lead to more severe systemic issues and potential implant failure. Persistent bleeding While some bleeding is normal after implant surgery, prolonged or recurring bleeding is cause for concern. It might suggest improper healing, an infection, or other complications. Dental professionals should evaluate any sustained bleeding to rule out potential issues. Prolonged bleeding could also indicate compromised healing, inadequate blood clot formation, or underlying vascular issues. Unexplained sensations Patients may experience tingling, numbness, or a "pins and needles" feeling around the implant site. These sensations could indicate nerve involvement, possibly due to the implant's placement or pressure on surrounding tissues. Nerve-related symptoms should be assessed promptly to prevent potential long-term complications. Changes in gum color and texture Healthy gums are typically pink and firm. Any alterations in color (such as redness or bluish tint) or texture (softening or ulceration) can indicate gum disease or other underlying problems. Changes in gum appearance suggest potential issues with gum health, which could impact the stability and health of the dental implant. Visible bone loss Significant bone loss may occur around the implant site in severe implant complications. This can result in a noticeable change in the shape and structure of the jaw. Visible bone loss is a critical sign that requires prompt attention to prevent further structural issues and maintain the implant's stability.

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