What is a common symptom of muscular dystrophy?

Progressive muscle weakness is a hallmark symptom of muscular dystrophy, a group of genetic disorders characterized by the degeneration of muscle fibers. This weakness typically begins in specific muscle groups and can gradually impact overall muscle function, leading to significant mobility challenges as the disease progresses.

In muscular dystrophy, as muscle tissue deteriorates, the ability to perform physical activities diminishes. This symptom is especially evident in children as they may struggle with tasks like running, jumping, or climbing stairs, which are typical physical activities for their age. Over time, this weakness can lead to difficulties in breathing or heart function, as the muscular system broadly affects various aspects of health.

The other symptoms listed, such as ear infections, chronic cough, and fever, are not indicative of muscular dystrophy and are more commonly associated with other conditions. These symptoms do not reflect the primary pathophysiology of muscular dystrophy, which focuses on muscle degeneration and weakness.