Muscular dystrophy (MD)is often considered one disease that presents in a classic way.

Congenital Muscular Dystrophy

Not all congenital forms of MD (those present at birth) have been identified.

Emery-Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy

This form progresses slowly.

muscular dystrophy symptoms

Illustration by Verywell

However, unlike DMD, contracturesmuscle shorteningmay appear earlier inlife.

Overall muscle weakness is also less severe than that of DMD.

Serious heart problems associated with Emery-Dreifuss MDmay require a pacemaker.

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Muscle weakness continues throughout the body as the disease progresses.

FSH MD can range from very mild to severe.

Despite the progressive muscle weakness, many people with FSH MD are still able to walk.

Myotonic MD affects the central nervous system, heart, digestive tract, eyes, andendocrine glands.

It progresses slowly, with the amount of muscle weakness varying from mild to severe.

Surgery can reduce swallowing problems and prevent choking as well aspneumonia.

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