2. Muscle Weakness and Wasting: The Silent Thief
Every parent beams with pride watching their child’s first steps, a milestone celebrating their muscle strength. Leigh’s Syndrome, however, can shroud this joy in a cloud of concern. The initial signs are subtle, a lethargy that one might dismiss as fatigue or a growth phase.
However, this lethargy soon becomes a recurring theme. The child’s limbs might seem weaker, unable to support their body weight effectively. Playtimes become shorter, with increased instances of the child preferring to sit or lie down rather than explore their surroundings. But that’s just the beginning.
Over the subsequent months, the once plump and healthy muscles begin to thin out, losing their tone and strength. This phenomenon, termed muscle wasting, isn’t just about appearance. The impact is profound, affecting the child’s mobility and independence, casting a shadow of dependency far too early in life. (2)
