Guide To Serious Nervous System Disorders

Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy is characterized by progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is the most common form of this condition, and it occurs more frequently in boys. Patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy typically display symptoms during childhood. Other forms may have no symptoms until adulthood. Myotonic muscular dystrophy is the most common form of adult-onset muscular dystrophy. Symptoms of muscular dystrophy vary by type. They may include frequent falls, walking on the toes, difficulties running and jumping, and difficulty rising from a lying or sitting position. Patients may have muscle pain and stiffness, and the calf muscles may be enlarged as well. Muscular dystrophy sometimes causes learning disabilities. To diagnose muscular dystrophy, doctors may perform genetic testing, enzyme tests, electromyography, and muscle biopsy.

There is currently no cure for this condition. Treatment focuses on enabling the patient to remain mobile for as long as possible. Medications such as eteplirsen may be considered for patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Corticosteroids might be recommended to delay the progression of some forms. Physical therapy helps the patient keep joints as flexible as possible. Braces are used to improve mobility and decrease the rate at which muscle contractures progress. Some patients could require breathing assistance.

Meningitis

Meningitis occurs when the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord become inflamed. Viruses and bacterial infections are the most common causes of meningitis. However, fungi, chemical irritation, allergies to medications, or cancer can also cause it. Some types of viral and bacterial meningitis are contagious. They can be transmitted to others through close contact, sneezing, or coughing. Bacterial meningitis symptoms are typically the most severe. Symptoms in adults include a stiff neck, sensitivity to light, skin rashes, headaches, fever, and lethargy. These symptoms usually appear suddenly. It is crucial to seek emergency medical care right away.

To diagnose meningitis, doctors will need to perform a lumbar puncture. They may also do blood cultures, chest x-rays, and a CT scan. Treatment for meningitis depends on the cause. Bacterial meningitis requires emergency hospitalization so the patient can receive intravenous antibiotics. While viral meningitis might resolve on its own, some patients will still need intravenous antiviral medicines. Cases of fungal meningitis are treated with antifungal agents. A vaccine is available to protect patients against several types of bacterial meningitis.