The Signs & Symptoms of Mitochondrial Disease

Mitochondrial diseases affect the part of the cell that houses genetic material. These mitochondria convert nutrients and oxygen into energy for the cells. In most mitochondrial diseases, the mitochondria are rendered unable to process oxygen and nutrients into energy. Mitochondrial diseases commonly harm cells in the respiratory and endocrine systems, as well as in the brain, kidneys, heart, skeleton muscles and liver.

Types

• Symptoms of mitochondrial diseases depend on the type of cells affected. If the cells of the brain are affected, symptoms will be neurological, for example. Common symptoms of mitochondrial diseases are stunted growth, developmental delays, loss of coordination or weakness, diabetes, muscle atrophy and dementia.

Significance

• According to the Cleveland Clinic, one in every 4,000 children will be diagnosed with a mitochondrial disease by age 10. When three or more organ systems are displaying symptoms, the mitochondria are likely affected.

Treatments

• Mitochondrial diseases have no cure; however, treatments can reduce symptoms and slow the progression. Two primary therapies include dietary changes and vitamins to replace missing nutrients.

Considerations

• Mitochondrial diseases are not contagious. People with mitochondrial disease should avoid physical and psychological stress because stress uses essential energy the body needs to function.

Diagnosis

• Mitochondrial diseases can range from mild to fatal. The disease is usually diagnosed in children, but onset in adults is becoming more common.