Struggling when getting dressed could be red flag sign of silent killer disease

16 July 2023 , 00:04

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Doddie Weir sadly died of the illness last year (Image: PA)

Having trouble when getting dressed could be a red flag sign of a silent killer disease that kills six Brits a day.

Struggling to do up buttons on shirts or trousers could be an early symptom of motor neurone disease. A weak grip - like dropping things or finding it difficult to open jars, are also key signs.

MND affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK and reportedly six people die every day from it. It is a fatal and rapidly progressing condition that targets the brain and spinal cord.

It causes weaknesses that get worse over time by attacking nerves that control movement. Whilst no cure, there are treatments which can help reduce the impact of the condition, and allow some people to live for many years with MND.

However, sadly, it usually significantly shortens life expectancy and eventually often leads to death. MND can leave sufferers trapped in a failing body, unable to move, talk and eventually breathe.

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The disease has no cure, and a number of famous rugby stars have spoken out about their diagnosis with the condition including Rob Burrow, and Doddie Weir - who sadly died from the illness last year.

Over 80 per cent of people who have MND suffer difficulties with talking - with some completely losing their voice. MND affects people from all communities and it kills a third of people within a year and more than half within two years of diagnosis.

Early symptoms of motor neurone disease

• Weakness in your ankle or leg – you might trip, or find it harder to climb stairs
• Slurred speech, which may develop into difficulty swallowing some foods
• A weak grip – you might drop things, or find it hard to open jars or do up buttons
• Muscle cramps and twitches
• Weight loss – your arms or leg muscles may have become thinner over time
• Difficulty stopping yourself from crying or laughing in inappropriate situations.

Hannah Kane