Spinal Muscular Atrophy Symptoms
According to the research, the majority of patients with spinal muscular atrophy are infants and newborns, while only a few are adults. Typically, the signs and symptoms of spinal muscular atrophy depend on the disorder’s type and severity. Occasionally, children between the ages of six and twelve begin to exhibit spinal muscular atrophy symptoms that indicate the severity of the disorder. On the other hand, some infants with the mild form of SMA exhibit no symptoms even two years into their lives.
However, the symptoms of each form of SMA are type-specific. Here are a few of the definitive signs and symptoms of spinal muscular atrophy:
Scoliosis is the curvature of the spinal chord.
Spinal curvature or scoliosis is one of the most common symptoms of spinal muscular atrophy, and the severity of the curve depends on the form of SMA the patient has. Nearly fifty percent of type 3 SMA patients have scoliosis and can scarcely walk independently. Scoliosis is a symptom experienced by both types 1 and 2 SMA patients. There is lateral curvature and bending of the spinal cord, resulting in poor posture and causing numerous complications for the patients. Medically known as scoliosis, the curvature of the spinal cord typically occurs in adolescents before the onset of puberty and during a growth spurt. Patients with mild spinal curvature do not require additional medical care, but they are in constant discomfort due to their scoliosis and their daily activities.
In addition, scoliosis affects other body organs, particularly those in the abdominal cavity, as the spine tends to curve and the organs converge. There is a possibility of spine deformities in severe cases of scoliosis. At adolescence, severe scoliosis is most prevalent in children, while only 3% of adults have the condition. As the spine bends in patients with spinal muscular atrophy, there is insufficient space for the lungs to function properly, resulting in respiratory difficulties. Patients with severe SMA tend to develop disabilities as their scoliosis progresses, making their lives more difficult.
.){kind=link}