Understanding SMA Types And Treatments

Type 3

Guess what, ladies? SMA type 3 is quite mild! That said, individuals will have significant and permanent effects with this one too. It's also rarer than SMA types 1 and 2. Ladies, symptoms of this type start between early childhood and adolescence! The big thing that has to happen if it's this type of spinal muscular atrophy? Symptoms must start after a kid learns to walk! If it happens before, it's a different form!

SMA type 3 can be split into two major subtypes. Once again, it depends on when symptoms start! The first subtype? Symptoms start when a kid is between 1 and 3 years old. The second, ladies, will start after a kid turns 3 years old. You'll first start to notice the kid struggling to walk and run. They'll have a hard time going up and down stairs too! The muscle weakness of SMA starts in the hips and legs for this type. That's why walking is challenging! Of course, ladies, the weakness will get into the arms and shoulders eventually.

Type 4

SMA type 4 is the form that affects adults! Ladies, the symptoms will start in your late teens, but before you're 20. Of course, patients can notice symptoms in their 20s and 30s too! Ladies, expect a diagnosis between 35 and 40 years old. This is when doctors will typically give it! Genes are why symptoms don't start early. Ladies, those who have this form have either 4 or 6 SMN2 gene copies. This is what compensates for the mutations that get younger patients! Genes also help keep the symptoms mild! Of course, ladies, expect leg and hip weakness. Some of those with this type will walk short distances with a mobility aid. Others? A wheelchair is needed because they can't walk!