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Nerve & Muscle Disorders
Nerve and Muscle Disorders refer to a group of conditions affecting the nerves, muscles, or the communication between them, leading to symptoms such as weakness, pain, or abnormal sensations. These disorders may result from genetic, autoimmune, metabolic, or traumatic causes.
Symptoms:
- Muscle Weakness: Difficulty lifting objects, climbing stairs, or performing daily activities.
- Muscle Wasting: Gradual loss of muscle mass, leading to reduced strength.
- Cramps or Spasms: Sudden, involuntary contractions causing discomfort or pain.
- Numbness or Tingling: Sensory disturbances in the affected areas.
- Pain: Chronic or acute pain in muscles or along nerve pathways.
- Coordination Problems: Difficulty in maintaining balance or performing coordinated movements.
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness, especially after minimal exertion.
Causes:
- Genetic Disorders: Conditions like muscular dystrophy or Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease are inherited and affect muscle or nerve function.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Disorders such as myasthenia gravis or Guillain-Barré syndrome, where the immune system attacks nerves or muscles.
- Metabolic and Nutritional Deficiencies: Diabetes, thyroid imbalances, or lack of vitamins (e.g., B12) can damage nerves.
- Trauma or Injury: Physical injuries, herniated discs, or repetitive strain can compress or damage nerves and muscles.
- Infections: Viral or bacterial infections like Lyme disease or shingles can impact nerves.
- Neuromuscular Junction Disorders: Conditions like myasthenia gravis disrupt communication between nerves and muscles.
- Medications or Toxins: Certain drugs, chemotherapy, or exposure to toxins can damage nerves or muscles.