Charcot's disease, its symptoms and treatment

Charcot-Marie's disease is characterized by a gradual atrophy of the muscles of the lower extremities. As a rule, the distal muscles of the legs are affected. This disease is characterized by a chronic course and constant (albeit at different rates) development. Despite relatively easy diagnosis at an early stage, it is one of the most terrible neurogenic pathologies.

Synonyms

The only difficulty in determining the disease by the patient is the set of synonyms that designate him. That's why even a diagnosis diagnosed by a doctor can be interpreted not quite right. So, the most common synonyms: Lou Gehrig syndrome, motor neuron disease and ALS disease - amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Causes of development

Of course, the factors that affect the occurrence of the most terrible diseases, it is better to know by heart. This is the only way to prevent their development. But, unfortunately, Charcot's disease is a hereditary disease caused by a mutation of two different proteins. Therefore, people can not prevent its development. The only recommendation: the people suffering from it should not become parents, since their chance to give birth to a healthy child is very small.

The mechanism of development

Since its inception, Charcot's disease has progressed continuously and non-stop. The reason for this is the very high activity of the glutamatergic system producing an acid that is disastrous for neurons that are responsible for the capacity of the parts of the spinal cord formed by them.

Symptoms

As a rule, Charcot's disease manifests itself in childhood or adolescence. The first signs of its development are fast fatigue, general weakness, heaviness and pain in the legs, a change in the shape of the foot, an unusual and awkward gait, a problematic flexion of the joints of the legs. In case of manifestation of even one of these symptoms, the doctor should immediately show up, as the more advanced the disease, the less the patient's chances.

Course of the disease

Knowing how the patient's life will pass, it is impossible to doubt the need for treatment. Without the help of qualified specialists, the existence of the unfortunate person will turn into hell. And if at first the patient feels only mild ailment, then eventually his skin begins to lose sensitivity, the process will spread to the hands, and then - and to other muscles of the body. Increasingly, there will be problems with the respiratory system, partial paralysis of the limbs is possible. The prognosis is by no means consoling - after all, due to an infectious disease of the lungs or bronchi (and, perhaps, in their paralysis), the patient will die.

Treatment

Unfortunately, Charcot's disease is not treated. Doctors can only alleviate its manifestations and slow progression. For this, the patient is prescribed tonics, vitamins, medicines that improve blood circulation in the muscles. The results can bring and a number of therapeutic exercises, massage, as well as orthopedic techniques. And, of course, many patients will need sessions with a therapist who can convince them that life is not over yet, but there is always hope.