Summary. 1  Some knowledge of basic first aid could mean the difference between life and death. 2  Consider doing a first aid course, so that you will be able to manage if someone is injured or becomes ill. 3  CPR is a life-saving skill that everyone should learn. 4  Keep a range of first aid kits handy at home, in the car and at work.
The loss of motor neurons leads to weakness and wasting (atrophy) of muscles used for activities such as crawling, walking, sitting up, and controlling head movement. In severe cases of spinal muscular atrophy, the muscles used for breathing and swallowing are affected.
Usually, degenerative muscle diseases are marked by problems with walking, balance, and coordination, and many affect speech, swallowing, and even breathing. Some examples of diseases that cause muscle deterioration include myocarditis, which involves the heart; muscular dystrophy, which is inherited; and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which eventually causes the death of the patient. Myocarditis is a type of degenerative muscle disease marked by inflammation in the heart.