What is Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder, in which extreme muscle weakness occurs. The name is derived from Greek and Latin defined as "grave muscle weakness."

This autoimmune disorder is a neuromuscular disease of the skeletal system involving the voluntary muscles of the body. Causing severe weakness and the inhibiting of the simulative affect of the neurotransmitter, which allows the nerves to signal the brain enabling the muscles to react.

The symptoms vary with the individual. The muscles that control the eye lids, facial expressions, chewing, talking, and swallowing are the most noticeable. The muscles that control breathing, and the arms and legs can also be affected.

Myasthenia gravis is sometimes difficult to diagnose because the symptoms may go unnoticed for various reasons. The individual may just appear to be tired from over working, or under stress from some other illness allowing the symptoms to go unnoticed for a period of time.

Symptoms of fatigue may include shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, stumbling or unstable gait, weakness in arms or legs. Since the heart muscle is stimulated differently it is not affected by Myasthenia gravis.

The most severe symptoms are weakness of respiratory muscles caused, from infection, fever, low immune system, a reaction to medication, or from other illnesses. When the muscles controlling breathing are compromised breathing becomes almost impossible. When in this state the body is considered in "crisis" and the patient must be hospitalized immediately for breathing assistance provided by a ventilator to sustain life.

Emergency treatment for a patient in crisis may involve plasmapheresis to remove antibodies from the blood and improve circulation.

The muscle fibers of Myasthenia gravis patients are easily fatigued and do not respond well to repeated stimulation as efficiently as the muscles of healthy individuals.

Treatment is usually administered as medication to improve muscle function. Drugs used may include cholinesterase inhibitors such as pyridostigmine which are given to help improve muscle strength. Prednisone and other similar medications may also be used to reduce some symptoms.

Some medication may make symptoms worse, therefore consult with your doctor before taking any kind of medications. It is also important to inform your dentist before having any dental work done that may require medication to be administered.

The individual with Myasthenia gravis can manage very well by following a few simple measures. It is important for them to take their medicine on time, and get plenty of rest.

Planning ahead for activities is wise, pacing themselves and getting short periods of rest during the day will allow them to engage in most activities.

This autoimmune disease is not life threatening, and with proper rest and medication the individual should be able to enjoy a normal lifestyle.