It is probable that defective genes in the nucleus are involved in other people with mitochondrial myopathies and work is in progress to try and solve these issues. Genetic counselling in mitochondrial myopathies is quite complex. Advice depends on the type of features seen, the presence or absence of a family history, and the results of genetic studies of blood and muscle samples. The risks of having affected children or brothers and sisters have to be assessed on an individual basis. Management Excessive exertion may produce nausea, headache and malaise in people with mitochondrial myopathies and this should be avoided.
Similar symptoms follow alcoholic drinks in some people.
A number of compounds involved in the respiratory chain, such as certain vitamins, are being evaluated in the treatment of these conditions, and in some people, particularly those with prominent muscle weakness, they can be quite helpful.