Are your muscles getting weak for no reason? Let's talk about myopathy!

Do you sometimes find it difficult to get up from a chair, climb stairs, or even do simple tasks like combing your hair? Do your muscles just feel weak and lifeless? The cause of this condition may be a condition called myopathy. This name may be new to you. But don't worry, we'll talk about everything in a simple way that you can understand.

What exactly is Myopathy?

Simply put, myopathy is a general term for the weakening of our skeletal muscles , the muscles that connect to our bones and move us. Think of our body as a car. This car is powered by an engine called muscle. Myopathy is a condition where the muscle fibers in these muscles are damaged, reducing the power of that engine. This is not a single disease, but a group of diseases.

Are there main types of myopathy?

Yes, myopathy can be divided into two main types. It's like some problems we inherit from birth and some problems that develop as we live.

Now let's look at these types in a little more detail.

Inherited Myopathies

These are caused by genetic factors, so they are often hereditary.

• Congenital Myopathies: These are conditions that are present at birth. Some children may show symptoms at birth. However, some people may develop symptoms later in life or even later in life. The characteristic feature of these is that the weakness affects almost all the muscles in the body and usually gets worse over time.
• Mitochondrial Myopathies: Simply put, mitochondria are the batteries that power our cells. When these batteries malfunction, the muscles don't get the energy they need, and they weaken. This condition can affect not only the muscles, but also other organs that require a lot of energy, such as the heart, brain, and digestive system.
• Metabolic Myopathies: Our muscles need special chemicals called enzymes to function properly. This condition is caused by a defect in the genes that make these enzymes. In this case, there may be severe pain and muscle twitching, especially in areas such as the shoulders and thighs, during exercise. Sometimes, a serious condition called ``Rhabdomyolysis``, in which muscle fibers break down, can occur.
• Muscular Dystrophies: You may have heard this name before. This is a condition in which the muscles gradually atrophy and weaken due to a deficiency in the production of proteins needed to keep the structure of the muscles strong. This can affect the muscles of the arms, legs, and sometimes the face and eyes.

Acquired Myopathies

These are not things that you are born with. They are situations that arise due to various reasons during life.

What are the symptoms of a myopathy condition?

Although there are many types of myopathy, there are several common symptoms that can be seen in almost all of them.

• Muscle weakness: Weakness, especially in the muscles near the midsection of the body (shoulders, upper arms, hips, and thighs).
• Muscle twitching, stiffness, and pain.
• Feeling extremely tired even after doing a small task.
• Lack of energy.

How do you feel about this weakness?

This muscle weakness can make it a challenge to perform everyday tasks. Just think...

• Even simple tasks like combing your hair, putting on clothes, and taking a shower feel difficult.
• It's hard to get up from a sitting chair.
• Climbing stairs becomes very tiring.
• It's hard to lift your hand to get something from a shelf above your head.
• When I get a little tired, I feel like I have trouble breathing.

Apart from this, other specific symptoms may also be seen depending on the type of myopathy. For example, some children may be late in starting to walk and jump. They may not be able to run or jump when playing with their peers. Some may also have difficulty swallowing and slurring their words when speaking.

How do I find out if I have this condition?

If you have these symptoms, the most important thing to do is to see your family doctor. He or she will take a thorough history of your symptoms, your family medical history, and any medications you are taking. They will then perform a physical exam and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist or rheumatologist.

Several tests can be done to confirm the diagnosis.

What are the treatments for myopathy?

Treatment depends on the type of myopathy you have. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment.

• General Treatment: Physical therapy and occupational therapy are important for many myopathic conditions. These can help maintain muscle strength and flexibility and help you perform daily activities more easily.
• For immune system problems: Drugs that suppress the immune system, such as immunosuppressants and corticosteroids, are given.
• For congenital myopathies: There is still no definitive cure for most of these diseases. However, symptoms can be controlled and quality of life improved. New drugs are now available for some specific conditions (e.g., Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Pompe disease).
• For other secondary myopathies: Treatment is directed at the underlying cause of the myopathy. For example, if it is a hormonal problem, it is corrected, if it is an infection, antibiotics are given, or if it is caused by a medication, the medication is stopped.

How should I take care of myself?

Although myopathy is a long-term condition, you can control the disease and live a healthy life by changing your lifestyle and managing it properly.

• Eat a good, nutritious diet. A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables and fruits is very important.
• Stay active. Engage in light exercise. But remember, before starting any exercise program, you should definitely talk to your doctor and ask what exercises are appropriate for your condition.
• Maintain a proper body weight.
• If you have difficulty swallowing, eat soft, liquid foods. Mash the food well and eat.
• Take the medicine prescribed by the doctor exactly on time.
• Pay attention to changes in your body. If you notice any changes or increases in symptoms, inform your doctor immediately.

Myopathy, muscle weakness, muscle disease, muscle pain