Which respiratory issue is common in muscular dystrophy due to weakness?

• A. Weak cough and increased infection risk
• B. Enhanced lung function
• C. No respiratory issues
• D. Clear, productive cough

Answer: (A)

In muscular dystrophy, weakness of the respiratory muscles (like the diaphragm and chest muscles) makes it hard to take deep breaths and to cough effectively. The cough is the body's main mechanism to clear secretions from the airways, so when the cough is weak, mucus and bacteria can linger, leading to a higher risk of respiratory infections. That’s why weak cough and increased infection risk is the best choice.

Enhanced lung function or having no respiratory issues aren’t typical of MD, since progressive muscle weakness affects breathing and airway clearance. A clear, productive cough implies good airway clearance, which MD patients often lack unless specific airway clearance techniques are used.