7 Most Common Types of Myopathies

Muscle weakness can be frustrating, especially when it develops without any clear cause. While people blame it on fatigue, having progressive weakness can be because of a deeper issue, like myopathy. It is a muscle weakness that affects the structure and function of the fibers. It can range from being inherited to developing in adulthood.

By understanding the different types of myopathies, you can get early treatment and live a quality life. In this blog, we will explore the seven most common types of myopathies and learn how they can be treated.

What Are the Causes of Myopathies?

Myopathies can be caused by different reasons. The main causes are:

• Genetics: Muscle issues can be passed down through generations.
• Autoimmune Condition: When your immune system attacks your own tissues by mistake, it can cause myopathy.
• Metabolic: Enzyme deficiencies can cause low energy production in your muscle cells.
• Infection: Bacterial or viral infections can cause harm to the muscle tissue.

Common Types of Myopathies

A myopathy can be diagnosed as one of the following types:

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

This type of myopathy is inherited, and it is one of the most severe types. It usually shows its signs in early childhood. The muscle weakness starts from the hips and progresses rapidly.

Becker Muscular Dystrophy

Becker is closely related to Duchenne. However, the progression is comparatively slow, and the signs first appear in early adulthood. In this myopathy, cardiac involvement can also occur.

Polymyositis

Polymyositis is an autoimmune myopathy that occurs in the shoulders and hips. Along with muscle weakness, you may also experience fatigue and difficulty swallowing.

Dermatomyositis

During dermatomyositis, you may get a rash on your skin and muscle weakness. You will get red and purple patches on your face, chest, and knuckles. It can be found in both children and adults.

Inclusion Body Myositis

It is a slow myopathy that usually begins at the age of 50. During this, you will experience weakness in your finger flexors and quadriceps. This type is often resistant to any therapies.

Congenital Myopathies

It is a genetic muscle condition that causes facial weakness and low muscle tone. The symptoms of this condition may vary. However, this myopathy is reported to stabilize with time.

Toxic Myopathy

This myopathy is caused when a person is exposed to certain drugs. These drugs can cause weakness and muscle pain. This myopathy can get better when the substance is caught early.

Treatment Approaches

1. Taking medications prescribed by your healthcare professional can help with inflammation and autoimmune myopathies.
2. Exercising regularly can enhance mobility and make your joints flexible.
3. Using braces or wheelchairs can offer support to individuals suffering from progressive conditions.
4. Taking good care of your diet is important in the advanced stages of myopathies.
5. Therapies like enzyme replacement, gene therapy, and biologics can treat metabolic myopathies.

Final Thoughts

Myopathies are of different types, and each has its own properties and is caused differently. By understanding the 7 main types, you can detect myopathy early and manage the symptoms. This will help you improve the quality of your life. With the right medical support, any type of myopathy can be managed.

At Rheumatology Care of North Houston, we help you navigate these different types with expert care. Contact us at (832) 532-9779 to book an appointment.