Symptom 6: Muscle Weakness – The Physical Manifestation
Muscle weakness, also referred to as hypotonia, is another classic symptom of Tay-Sachs disease. In the early stages, this may present as the child seeming floppy or having less control over their movements than their peers.
As Tay-Sachs progresses, muscle weakness becomes more prominent. The child might struggle to support their own body weight, leading to difficulties with sitting, standing, or walking. In severe cases, they may lose the ability to move independently, which significantly impacts their quality of life.
Despite the daunting prospect of progressive muscle weakness, numerous adaptive tools and therapies can help manage this symptom. Physical and occupational therapies, for instance, can assist with strengthening the muscles and improving coordination.
It’s important to recognize that while this symptom presents a significant challenge, it does not define the person. Children with Tay-Sachs disease can still engage with the world in meaningful ways, even with reduced mobility. (6)
