Symptoms can vary in type and severity from person to person depending on the age of onset, the genes involved and which organs and systems are affected.
Poor growth, loss of muscle coordination and muscle weakness.
Visual problems, hearing problems, blindness or deafness.
Learning disabilities, developmental delays, confusion and memory loss.
Heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease and gastrointestinal disorders.
Respiratory disorders and increased risk of infection.
Seizures, migraines, neurological problems and autonomic dysfunction.
Thyroid and/or adrenal dysfunction.
Autism, autistic spectrum and autistic-like features.
Anxiety disorders, depression and behavioural changes.
Chronic fatigue syndrome and exercise intolerance.
Early recognition, the right medical support and emotional support can make a big difference.
The body and each mutation is influenced by other genome variants. The same mutation can affect people differently.
Some defects may cause only exercise intolerance, while others can lead to serious illness or disability. When affected mitochondria are present in energy demanding organs such as the muscles, brain or nerves, symptoms are often more severe.
Although mitochondrial diseases vary greatly, several major clinical categories have been defined based on the most common features.
Learn More About Mitochondrial DiseaseMany symptoms can be invisible but still have a huge impact on daily life.
If you or a loved one has been affected by mitochondrial disease, we are here to help.