SMA, called Spinal Muscular Atrophy, is an uncommon disease that causes muscle wasting and weakness. The disease, which affects the mobility by holding many muscles in the body, significantly reduces the quality of life of people. SMA, which is considered the most common cause of death in infants, is more common in western countries. In our country, it is a genetically transmitted disease that is seen in one baby in about 6 thousands to 10 thousands. SMA is a progressive disease characterized by muscle wasting caused by motor neurons called motility cells.
Generally, although the symptoms vary according to the types of the disease, they are listed as follows:
Weak muscles and weakness leading to a lack of motor development
Decreased reflexes
Shaking hands
Inability to maintain head control
Nutritional difficulties
Thin voice and weak cough
Cramping and loss of walking ability
Falling behind peers
Frequent falls
Difficulty sitting, standing, and walking
Tongue twitching
There is no definitive treatment for SMA disease yet, but studies continue at full speed. However, the quality of life of the patient can be increased by applying different treatments to reduce the symptoms of the disease by the specialist physician.
Dr. Ryan Ulrich
