The muscular system is responsible for all of the body's movement. It is made up of muscles and tendons. There are three types of muscle: smooth, cardiac and voluntary. There are numerous types of muscular system diseases that can affect any type of muscle.
Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is a group of inherited muscle diseases characterized by weakness and degeneration of the voluntary muscle fibers. There are a number of different types of muscular dystrophy, some that appear in infancy or childhood and others that do not appear until later in life. The exact cause of muscular dystrophy depends on the specific type, but in general the condition is caused by a genetic mutation. General symptoms of muscular dystrophy include muscle weakness, lack of coordination and progressive crippling. Other symptoms are specific to the type of muscular dystrophy and include frequent falls, large calf muscles, difficulty rising from a sitting or standing position and a waddling walk, according to Mayo Clinic. Although there is no cure for muscular dystrophy, treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms and muscle damage and retaining mobility for as long as possible.
Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune muscular disease that is also characterized by weakness of the voluntary muscles. Muscle weakness usually occurs during physical activity and diminishes with periods of rest. The condition is caused by a defect in the transmission of nerve impulses to the muscles. Nerve impulses are sent normally, but are intercepted at the neuromuscular junction, the place where nerves connect with the muscles, and do not reach the muscle, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
In most cases, weakness of the eye muscles is the first symptom of myasthenia gravis. Other symptoms include difficulty swallowing; slurred speech; blurred vision; weakness in arms, hands, fingers and legs; and impaired speech. Myasthenia gravis can be controlled by with a number of medications and in severe cases, surgery.
Myotonia Congenita
Myotonia congenita is an inherited muscular disease that affects muscle relaxation. The condition is caused by a genetic mutation and can be passed down from one or both parents. In those with myotonia congenita, electrical impulses are constantly being discharged, resulting in muscle stiffness, called myotonia. Along with muscle stiffness, other symptoms include difficulty swallowing, gagging, stiff movements and shortness of breath. Symptoms usually occur during the initial movement and diminish with repetitive motion, according to Medline Plus. A number of medications are available to improve symptoms. Myotonia congenita usually improves with age.
