Most Common SMA Symptoms
Spinal Muscular Atrophy, also known as SMA, is a rare genetic neuromuscular disease that affects the muscles used for movement, strength, breathing, swallowing, and everyday independence. SMA is caused by changes involving the SMN1 gene, which leads to a lack of survival motor neuron protein and causes motor neurons in the spinal cord to weaken and atrophy. As these nerve cells are affected, the body can experience progressive muscle weakness, making SMA awareness essential for families, caregivers, educators, and the general public.
Common symptoms of Spinal Muscular Atrophy can include muscle weakness, low muscle tone, difficulty sitting, standing, walking, lifting the arms, coughing, breathing, swallowing, and meeting physical milestones. The symptoms can vary depending on the type of SMA and the individual’s level of strength, support, and medical care. For example, some people may rely on a wheelchair, respiratory equipment, feeding support, physical therapy, or daily caregiving assistance, while others may walk but still experience fatigue, weakness, balance issues, or progressive mobility changes. Breathing concerns are a major part of SMA care because weak respiratory muscles can make coughing, airway clearance, and recovery from respiratory infections more difficult.
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