Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. It’s caused by mutations in the DMD gene, which encodes the protein dystrophin. This protein is crucial for maintaining muscle cell structure and function. Without dystrophin, muscle cells are easily damaged, leading to the gradual weakening and wasting away of muscle tissue. DMD primarily affects boys, with symptoms typically appearing between ages 2 and 5. Early signs include difficulty in walking, running, and jumping, as well as frequent falls and muscle stiffness.

Living with arthritis is no joke. One minute you’re a spry individual, the next, you’re wrestling with your socks like they’re tiny boa constrictors. But what exactly is “difficulty performing daily activities” (DPDA)? This term refers to the struggles people face when trying to perform basic tasks, like dressing, cooking, or even holding a coffee cup. It’s a reality that many with arthritis know all too well. But let’s delve deeper into what this means and how it affects lives.

Defining Eye Problems and Their Many Effects

When we think of arthritis, images of aching joints and stiff limbs come to mind. Rarely do we consider the eyes, yet they, too, can fall victim to this insidious condition. Eye problems like uveitis, scleritis, and dry eyes often accompany arthritis, silently aggravating an already challenging disease. Uveitis, inflammation of the middle layer of the eye, can lead to redness, pain, blurred vision, and light sensitivity. Scleritis affects the white part of the eye, causing deep, severe pain. Dry eyes, the most common issue, lead to discomfort, a gritty sensation, and vision problems.