Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) most commonly affects babies and children. As a result of the condition, they cannot use their muscles properly. In a child with SMA, there is a breakdown of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, and essentially, the brain stops sending messages to control muscle movement. It is a very rare genetic disease and is found in 1 out of 10,000 people or 1-2 out of 100,000.

In this article we will talk about the risk factors, diagnosis, and prevention tips for SMA.

Risk factors
Doctors and scientists have not yet found one single cause of SMA. However, some habits and lifestyle choices are likelier to develop complications, these are known as risk factors. They are:

• Sedentary lifestyle or inactivity for longer periods can lead to SMA. If one has motor weakness, being inactive can cause health problems, such as respiratory issues, constipation, and bedsores.
• SMA affects the immune system. Hence, one should avoid contact with people with contagious diseases. Coming in contact with a person with an infectious disease can slow down or weaken your immune system.
• Poor diet or food lacking sufficient nutrition does not help the body fight infections. Lack of nutrients makes the muscles weak, leading to inability to perform minor daily tasks. It can also worsen SMA symptoms.

Diagnosis
SMA is difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms of the disorder are quite similar to those of other conditions.

Doctors generally ask for blood samples, and nerve tests such as an electromyogram (EMG), CT scan, or an MRI. You may also have to undergo muscle biopsy and other blood tests as per the direction of the doctor.

Measures to prevent complications

Once you know of the risk factors and diagnosis procedures for SMA, it is also essential to know of prevention tips that can slow down the progression of SMA. Apart from the medications and therapies prescribed by the doctors, there are other preventive measures that should also be adhered to:

• Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rehabilitation helps one in the improvement of posture, mobility of joints, and slows down progression of muscle weakness.
• Regular exercise and movement of the body through stretching, yoga, or meditation as suggested by doctors should be incorporated in the daily routine. Exercises help in increasing the range of motion, circulation flow, and reducing contraction.
• A diet full of nutrition is a must. Essential nutrients help the body fight infections and also strengthens the muscles.

When it comes to managing the condition, it is very important to take into consideration these risk factors, diagnosis, and prevention tips for SMA. Taking care of your overall health and making some lifestyle changes cannot alter or cure it, but they certainly minimizes the risk and improve the quality of life. Hence, one should take care of their health, fitness, and diet. By visiting the doctor regularly, following directions of the physician, and living an active life, SMA can be easily kept under control.