Imagine your body as a car. To make it go, your brain sends signals through your nerves to your muscles. These signals are like the gas pedal, telling your muscles to move. But with myasthenia gravis (MG), these signals get blocked, like someone’s putting the brakes on your muscles.
What is Myasthenia Gravis?
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a long-term condition that makes your muscles weak and tired, especially after you use them. It’s like your muscles run out of energy faster than usual. This happens because your body’s immune system, which normally fights off germs, mistakenly attacks the connections between your nerves and muscles.
What are the Signs of Myasthenia Gravis?
Myasthenia gravis (MG) can affect different muscles in your body, so the signs can vary. Some common ones include:
- Droopy eyelids: One or both eyelids might droop, making it hard to see.
- Double vision: Things might look blurry or like you’re seeing double.
- Trouble swallowing: It might be hard to swallow food or drinks.
- Slurred speech: Your voice might sound different, or it might be hard to say words clearly.
- Weakness in your arms and legs: You might get tired easily when lifting things or climbing stairs.
- Trouble breathing: In severe cases, MG can affect the muscles you use to breathe.
- Decreased facial movement: Facial expressions of anger, fear, and happiness may be significantly decreased.
- Unusual expressions: Facial expressions may appear awkward or unusual, such as a smile that looks like a grimace.
What Causes Myasthenia Gravis?
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease, which means your body’s immune system is attacking itself by mistake.1 Scientists think this might be caused by a mix of things, like your genes, stress, viral infections, and your environment.
How is Myasthenia Gravis Diagnosed?
Doctors use a few different tests to figure out if you have myasthenia gravis (MG):
- Physical exam: The doctor will check your muscles and reflexes.
- Blood test: This checks for special proteins (antibodies) that attack your muscles.2
- Nerve tests: These tests measure how well your nerves are sending signals to your muscles.2
How is Myasthenia Gravis Treated?
While there’s no cure for myasthenia gravis (MG), there are treatments that can help you feel better and manage your symptoms:
- Medications: Some medicines help your nerves and muscles communicate better.3
- Therapies: Physical (exercises to improve muscle strength) and occupational therapy can help you keep your muscles strong and learn new ways to do things.
- Surgery: Sometimes, surgery to remove a gland in your chest (the thymus gland) can help improve MG.3
Living with Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis (MG) can be challenging, but many people with MG live full and active lives. Here are some things that can help:
- Learn about MG: The more you know, the better you can manage your condition.
- Talk to your doctor: Ask questions and work together to create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
- Find support: Connect with other people who have MG. They can offer encouragement and understanding.
- Take care of yourself: Eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and find ways to manage stress.
While MG is a chronic condition, the outlook for most people is generally positive. With proper treatment and management, many individuals with MG can experience significant improvement in their symptoms and lead full, active lives. Some people even achieve long-term remission, meaning their symptoms disappear for extended periods. However, it’s important to remember that MG can fluctuate, and symptoms may worsen or improve over time.1
References
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2022). Myasthenia Gravis Fact Sheet. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/myasthenia-gravis-fact-sheet
- Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America. Diagnosing Myasthenia Gravis. https://myasthenia.org/understanding-mg/diagnosing-mg/
- Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America. Treatments. https://myasthenia.org/myasthenia-gravis-treatments/
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