[ad_1]
It’s the little-known progressive condition that causes the muscles to weaken over time, leading to those suffering from the disease to face an increasing level of disability.
Our digital January cover star Jillian Mercado was diagnosed with spastic muscular dystrophy as a teenager but it hasn’t stopped her from fronting campaigns for the likes of Diesel, Nordstorm and Beyoncé, all while being signed up to IMG, one of the biggest model agencies in the world. In the process, Mercado has helped knock down barriers for models with visible disabilities, something that we here at GLAMOUR love nothing better than championing.
It’s estimated that there over 70,000 people living with some form of muscular dystrophy worldwide. So, what exactly is it and how is it treated? Here Dr Mishkat Shehata, the founder of The Lifestyle Code Clinic, shares an insight into the condition.
What is muscular dystrophy?
Muscular dystrophy is an umbrella term for a group of inherited genetic conditions that gradually get worse over time, cause the muscles of the body to weaken which often leads to disability. There are many types and some eventually become life-threatening as they affect the heart or the muscles we use to breathe.
What causes muscular dystrophy?
Muscular dystrophy is caused by mutations of genes that are responsible for the structure and functioning of muscles. These mutations are often inherited from a person’s parents.
How is muscular dystrophy diagnosed?
There are many ways to reach a diagnosis for the different types of muscular dystrophy, which include some or all of the following:
- Investigating symptoms reported
- Discussing any family history of MD
- A physical examination
- Blood tests
- Undertaking electrical tests on the nerves and muscles
- Getting a muscle biopsy
How is muscular dystrophy treated?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for muscular dystrophy but a range of treatments are available that help with the physical disabilities and other issues associated with MD such as the emotional impact of the diagnosis on the individual and their family. Treatments include medication for the heart, physiotherapy, physical aids, peer support and surgery to correct deformities.
Researchers are looking into ways of fixing the genetic mutations and muscle damage associated with MD.
For more information visit musculardystrophyuk.org
[ad_2]
READ SOURCE
