Living with Becker
Understanding Becker Muscular Dystrophy is an Important Step in Helping You Manage Your Condition.
Let's start with the basics. On this page, you'll learn more about:
Becker Quick Facts
Disease Progression
- Becker muscular dystrophy is a progressive disease meaning the muscles in your body become weaker over time.1,2 Muscles affected include the ones that enable movement (skeletal muscles), the heart, and muscles responsible for breathing.
- Becker is a highly variable disease. The symptoms experienced by individuals, their severity, the age of symptom onset, and overall disease progression may vary, affecting each individual with Becker muscular dystrophy differently.2
Impact of Disease
- Skeletal muscle function decline can occur at any age.3 As muscle damage accumulates, it can be more difficult to perform everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs.2
- Becker muscular dystrophy can cause weakening of the heart muscle, which can lead to heart rhythm disturbances and the heart not pumping blood as well as it should.5 Proactively working with a Cardiologist can help monitor your heart health.
- Muscle weakness caused by Becker muscular dystrophy can also affect your ability to breathe. 6
- Muscle loss is irreversible.4 Maintaining muscle function is an important part of managing Becker muscular dystrophy.
Support
- While there is no standard of care for Becker muscular dystrophy, there are resources available to help you manage your condition.
- Individuals diagnosed with Becker muscular dystrophy can help preserve muscle function through physical therapy.7
- Becker muscular dystrophy requires a Specialty Care Team who understands how to manage your condition.8
- It is possible to lead a fulfilling life with Becker muscular dystrophy. Your Care Team can play a critical role in managing your condition and improving your quality of life.
Challenges of Becker Muscular Dystrophy Progression
Diagnosing Becker Muscular Dystrophy Early is Important
Becker muscular dystrophy primarily affects boys and men.3 Early diagnosis of Becker muscular dystrophy can aid in preserving muscle function and symptom management.4 Begin the diagnosis process by scheduling an appointment with your Primary Care physician or Neurologist to learn more.
Common Steps in Diagnosis
Physical Examination
Becker muscular dystrophy diagnosis begins with a physical examination after initial symptoms appear.9
Lab Tests
Elevated Creatine Kinase (CK) plasma level guides toward a potential diagnosis of Becker muscular dystrophy.11 Individuals living with Becker muscular dystrophy may have up to 50 times the normal CK level.1
Genetic Testing
Diagnosis is confirmed with genetic testing which identifies the underlying mutation.10
Potential for Confusion with Other Muscular Dystrophies
Becker muscular dystrophy and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) are caused by a mutation on the dystrophin gene; both diseases may share symptoms and Becker may be initially diagnosed as Duchenne. Additionally, because Becker is a typically progressive disease affecting muscles, it may be confused with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD).1 It is important to work with your Care Team to receive an accurate diagnosis and begin proactively managing your condition to preserve muscle function.
Becker Muscular Dystrophy Symptoms
“Being proactive in the management of your Becker muscular dystrophy is very important as it's a progressive disorder. The earlier you act, the more you may be able to minimize your symptoms and mitigate the challenges that may arise.”
Charlie – Living with Becker
Musculoskeletal Symptoms
Muscle weakness is a key symptom of Becker muscular dystrophy.1 Muscles in your body support functions critical to independent living, such as walking, getting dressed and going to the bathroom.
Quick Facts:
When symptoms of Becker start, individuals living with Becker complain of muscle cramps and pain with strenuous physical activity.11
Walking problems are usually noticed by age 15.3 Muscle function loss is irreversible.4
Cardiac Symptoms
Since the heart is made of muscle, Becker muscular dystrophy can cause weakening of the heart. This may lead to heartbeat irregularities and the heart not pumping blood as well as it should in a condition called dilated cardiomyopathy.5 Dilated cardiomyopathy is a serious heart condition requiring cardiologist care. In some cases, dilated cardiomyopathy may be the first sign of Becker muscular dystrophy.5
Endocrine Symptoms
Becker can cause endocrine related symptoms including low levels of testosterone.13 Low testosterone levels can limit muscle development and affect reproductive function.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Gastrointestinal symptoms including trouble swallowing, constipation, reflux, bloating, and stomach discomfort can be seen in individuals living with Becker muscular dystrophy3 and can be managed with the help of a Gastroenterologist or Primary Care physician.
Respiratory Symptoms
Muscle weakness caused by Becker muscular dystrophy can also affect the respiratory system. The diaphragm and other respiratory muscles can weaken resulting in difficulties breathing.6 If this happens, individuals with Becker can work with a respiratory specialist to test their breathing function. Medical equipment to support breathing may be needed as the condition progresses.
Nervous System / Cognitive Symptoms
Becker muscular dystrophy can contribute to developmental and motor delays. Learning disability and behavioral issues may also be symptoms of Becker.12 Individuals living with Becker can consider consulting with a Neurologist to coordinate an individual treatment plan.
Communicate any changes in muscle function and mobility to your Care Team. An open dialog can help guide your Care Team to improve your current Becker management plan.