Muscular dystrophy is a condition that affects the strength and function of the muscles. It is a progressive disease, which means that it gets worse over time.

Muscular dystrophy can affect people of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed in children. In this article, we will look at the signs and symptoms of muscle dystrophy in children.

What is Muscular Dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic disorders that affect the muscles. These disorders cause the muscles to weaken and break down over time. There are many different types of muscular dystrophy, and each one can affect the body differently.

The most common types of muscular dystrophy in children are:.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)
Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD)
Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD)
Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD)

Common Signs and Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy in Children

The signs and symptoms of muscular dystrophy in children can vary depending on the type of muscular dystrophy and the severity of the disease. Some common signs and symptoms of muscular dystrophy in children include:.

Weakness in the Muscles

One of the most common signs of muscular dystrophy is weakness in the muscles. This weakness can affect different muscles in the body depending on the type of muscular dystrophy.

In some cases, children may have trouble lifting things or standing up from a seated position. They may also have trouble walking or running.

Frequent Falls

Children with muscular dystrophy may experience frequent falls. This is because the muscles that control balance and coordination are often affected by the disease.

Trouble Climbing Stairs

Children with muscular dystrophy may have trouble climbing stairs. This is because the muscles that control movement in the legs are often affected by the disease.

Delayed Motor Skills

Some children with muscular dystrophy may have delayed motor skills. They may have trouble crawling, walking, or running at the same rate as their peers.

Difficulty Breathing

In some cases, muscular dystrophy can affect the muscles used for breathing. This can cause children to have trouble breathing or to breathe more slowly than normal.

Scoliosis

Children with muscular dystrophy may develop scoliosis, which is an abnormal curve in the spine. This can cause back pain, difficulty breathing, and other health issues.

Trouble Swallowing

Some children with muscular dystrophy may have trouble swallowing. This can be due to weakness in the muscles used for eating and swallowing.

Speech Problems

Children with muscular dystrophy may have trouble speaking clearly. This can be due to weakness in the muscles used for speaking.

Cognitive Impairment

In some cases, children with muscular dystrophy may experience cognitive impairment. This can affect their ability to learn and process information.

Heart Problems

Some types of muscular dystrophy can cause heart problems, such as cardiomyopathy. This can lead to heart failure if left untreated.

Conclusion

Muscular dystrophy is a serious condition that can affect children of all ages. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of muscular dystrophy so that the condition can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

If you are concerned that your child may be experiencing symptoms of muscular dystrophy, talk to your doctor right away.