Charcot-Marie 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 (although at a different pace) development. Despite the relatively easy diagnosis at an early stage, it is one of the worst neurogenic pathologies.
Synonyms
The only difficulty in determining this disease by the patient is a lot of synonyms denoting it. That is why even a diagnosis made by a doctor may not be completely interpreted. So, the most common synonyms: Lou Gehrig's syndrome, motor neuron disease and ALS disease - amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Development reasons
Of course, the factors influencing the occurrence of the most terrible diseases are best known by heart. Only in this way can their development be prevented. But, unfortunately, Charcot's disease is a hereditary disease caused by a mutation of two different proteins. Therefore, to prevent its development, man can not afford. The only recommendation: people who suffer from it should not become parents, since their chance of having a healthy baby is very small.
Development mechanism
From the moment of its manifestation, Charcot's disease is constantly and non-stop progressing. The reason for this is the very high activity of the glutamatergic system that produces acid, which is fatal for neurons responsible for the capacity of the spinal cord sections formed by them.
Symptoms
As a rule, Charcot's disease manifests itself already in childhood or adolescence. The first signs of its development are fatigue, general weakness, heaviness and pain in the legs, a change in the shape of the foot, an unusual and awkward gait, problematic flexion of the joints of the legs. In the event of the manifestation of at least one of these symptoms, you should immediately see a doctor, as the more advanced the disease, the less likely the patient.
Course of the disease
Knowing how the patient’s life will pass, it is impossible to doubt the need for treatment. Indeed, without the help of qualified specialists, the existence of an unfortunate person will turn into hell. And if at first the patient will feel only a slight malaise, then over time his skin will begin to lose sensitivity, the process will spread to the hands, and then to other muscles of the body. Increasingly, problems with the respiratory system will occur, partial paralysis of the limbs is possible. The prognosis is by no means comforting - in the end, due to an infectious disease of the lungs or bronchi (and, possibly, with paralysis), the patient will die.
Treatment
Unfortunately, Charcot's disease is not treated. Doctors can only ease its manifestations and slow down progression. To do this, the patient is prescribed tonic agents, vitamins, medications that improve blood circulation in the muscles. A number of therapeutic exercises, massage, as well as orthopedic techniques can bring results. And, of course, many patients will need sessions from a psychotherapist who can convince them that life is not over yet, and there is always hope.