The age of onset of muscle weakness is extremely variable; the most common being between eight and 15 years, although it can range between two and 50 years.
Life expectancy is generally within a normal range because the heart and breathing muscles are usually not affected.
In later stages of the condition, breathing difficulties can occur but are usually less severe than in other muscular dystrophies. These symptoms can include poor sleep, nightmares, tiredness or headaches after waking up in the morning, lack of appetite and falling asleep during the day.
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