What are myotonic discharges?

What are myotonic discharges?

1. Electrical myotonia is the spontaneous discharge of muscle fibers that waxes and wanes in both amplitude and frequency on electromyography (EMG). Myotonia is thought to be due to increased excitability of muscle fibers, leading to discharge of repetitive action potentials in response to stimulation.

What are myotonic disorders?

Myotonic dystrophy is characterized by progressive muscle wasting and weakness. People with this disorder often have prolonged muscle contractions (myotonia) and are not able to relax certain muscles after use. For example, a person may have difficulty releasing their grip on a doorknob or handle.

What is the meaning of myotonic?

Myotonia is a medical term that refers to a neuromuscular condition in which the relaxation of a muscle is impaired. It can affect any muscle group. Repeated effort will be needed to relax the muscle, although the condition usually improves after the muscles have warmed-up.

What causes MMD?

Myotonic muscular dystrophy (MMD) is a multisystem disorder that affects the brain, skeletal and smooth muscles, eyes, heart, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, and endocrine system. The 2 forms, type 1 and type 2, are caused by different gene mutations.

Is myotonia curable?

There is currently no cure or specific treatment for myotonic dystrophy. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms of the disease. Routine physical activity appears to help maintain muscle strength and endurance and to control musculoskeletal pain.

How do you diagnose myotonia?

In people with myotonia, the thumb will abduct and relax slowly. These days, a doctor who suspects DM1 or DM2 is likely to move from the history and physical exam to a DNA test (genetic test) to confirm a diagnosis.

What are symptoms of myotonia?

Myotonia congenita is a genetic disease characterized by the inability of the skeletal muscles to quickly relax after voluntary movements. Symptoms typically begin in childhood and vary from person to person. They may include muscle stiffness, muscle weakness, and attacks of weakness brought on by movement after rest.