Myotonic Dystrophy

What is Myotonic dystrophy?

Myotonic dystrophy is part of a group of inherited disorders called muscular dystrophies. It is the most common form of muscular dystrophy that begins in adulthood. Myotonic dystrophy is characterized by progressive muscle wasting and weakness.

A lot can go wrong. Some people will have all of these symptoms and others will not.

People who have myotonic dystrophy have muscle wasting and weakness in their lower legs, hands, neck and face that get worse over time. Signs and symptoms of myotonic dystrophy usually develop when a person is in his or her twenties or thirties. The severity of myotonic dystrophy varies widely among those who have it, even among family members.

As the disease progresses, the heart can develop an abnormal rhythm and the heart muscle can weaken. The muscles used for breathing can weaken, causing inadequate breathing, particularly during sleep.

The development of cataracts (opaque spots in the lenses of the eyes) relatively early in life is another characteristic of Myotonic dystrophy