Treating cardiac problems
In some types of muscular dystrophy, the heart muscles and the muscles used for breathing are affected. This can happen in severe conditions, which can be life-threatening. When heart muscles are affected, the heart will not pump blood to the body and enlarge. While breathing issues can result in a shortage of blood supply to other organs. Therefore those muscles need to work properly. The function of the heart must be assessed regularly after the diagnosis of MD. In Duchenne and Backers’ case, MD examination of heart rhythm is required through an electrocardiogram (ECG) regularly. MRI scans can tell about heart problems. If in case any damage is detected, then the patient will be referred to a cardiologist. AEC inhibitors can be provided to relax the arteries. Beta-blockers can be given to control irregular heartbeats. A pacemaker (small battery-operated device) can also be fitted to correct the heartbeat in some cases. A pacemaker helps in the regulation of heartbeat.