Best Doctors for Muscular Dystrophy in Hyderabad

Types/Stages of Muscular Dystrophy

Specialists in muscular dystrophy note that this condition encompasses several distinct types, each with unique characteristics:

• Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: This is the most prevalent form, typically affecting boys in childhood. It progresses rapidly and is characterised by severe muscle weakness, starting in the legs and pelvis.

• Becker Muscular Dystrophy: Similar to Duchenne, it presents milder symptoms with a slower progression. Symptoms manifest in adolescence or early adulthood.

• Myotonic Dystrophy: This is the most common adult-onset form, characterised by myotonia, a condition where muscles are unable to relax after contraction, leading to stiffness.

• Limb-girdle Muscular Dystrophy: In this type, the weakness starts in the muscles around the hips/shoulders and affects both males and females.

Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy

The onset of muscular dystrophy can lead to several noticeable changes in the body:

• Progressive muscle weakness and wasting

• Increased frequency of falls and difficulty in running or jumping

• Enlarged calf muscles (pseudohypertrophy)

• Breathing complications and cardiac problems in severe cases

• Contractures (joint stiffness) due to muscle weakness and imbalance

Tests to Diagnose Muscular Dystrophy

At Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, several tests are employed by doctors treating muscular dystrophy for diagnosing this disorder:

• Physical examination: A thorough assessment of muscle strength, tone, reflexes, and mobility is conducted to evaluate the extent of muscle weakness and functional impairments.

• Genetic testing: This involves analysing DNA samples to identify specific genetic mutations associated with different types of muscular dystrophy.

• Blood tests: These tests measure elevated levels of creatine kinase (an enzyme released into the bloodstream when muscle fibres are damaged or destroyed), indicating muscle damage.

• Electromyography: EMG assesses the electrical activity of muscles by inserting small needles (electrodes) into the muscles.

• Muscle biopsy: A small sample of muscle tissue is obtained for microscopic examination. This helps assess the structure of muscle fibres, detect abnormalities, and confirm the presence of specific types of muscular dystrophy.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Muscular Dystrophy at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad

Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad has some of the best doctors specialising in muscular dystrophy treatment who help manage the symptoms and complications of the disease:

• Physical and Occupational Therapy: These therapies focus on maintaining muscle strength, flexibility, and mobility.

• Assistive Devices: Braces for muscle and joint support, canes, and wheelchairs to improve mobility are provided to enhance the quality of life.

• Medication: Drugs are prescribed to treat heart and respiratory problems associated with muscular dystrophy.

• Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids like prednisone or deflazacort help slow muscle wasting in some types of muscular dystrophy.

• Surgical Interventions: Surgeries may be recommended by doctors specialising in muscular dystrophy treatment for scoliosis or joint contractures.