muscular dystrophy - hereditary muscle diseases

Symptoms vary with the different types of muscular dystrophy.

All of the muscles may be affected. Or, only specific groups of muscles may be affected, such as those around the pelvis, shoulder, or face. Muscular dystrophy can affect adults, but the more severe forms tend to occur in early childhood.

Symptoms include:

Mental retardation (only present in some types of the condition)

Muscle weakness that slowly gets worse

Delayed development of muscle motor skills

Difficulty using one or more muscle groups

Drooling

Eyelid drooping (ptosis)

Frequent falls

Loss of strength in a muscle or group of muscles as an adult

Loss in muscle size

Problems walking (delayed walking)

The list of types of Muscular Dystrophy mentioned in various sources includes:

Myotonic Muscular Dystrophy - most common type of MD in adults
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy - most common type in children
Becker Muscular Dystrophy - a milder form of Duchenne MD
Limb-girdle Muscular Dystrophy
Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy
Congenital Muscular Dystrophy
Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy
Distal Muscular Dystrophy
Emery-Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy
Myotonic Dystrophy

Treatment of muscular dystrophy consists of a well integrated plan that is customized to the individual's specific case. There currently is no cure for muscular dystrophy and treatment plans are geared toward managing symptoms complications so children and adults with muscular dystrophy can live as long, full and active lives as possible.

People with muscular dystrophy are encouraged to keep their bodies as strong and healthy as possible by engaging in regular activities and physical therapy. Bed rest and long periods of inactivity actually make the disease worse.

Physical therapy can help a child or adult to maintain as much strength and flexibility as possible. Physical therapy can also help to lesson joint stiffness. Occupational therapy can help a person to be able to complete the activities of daily living and remain independent for as long as possible.

Braces on the hands and legs can help with mobility and to keep stiff joints from contracting permanently.

Treatment in some cases may include medications. Corticosteroid medications may help to slow progression of the disease.

Genetic counselling may benefit families who have muscular dystrophy in the family. Genetic counselling can help them to understand the risks of passing the abnormal gene that causes muscular dystrophy to any children in the future.

( source:http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/ )