Myasthenia Gravis (MG)Myasthenia Gravis is an autoimmune disease that is characterized by muscle fatigue and weakness. In MG, there is a breakdown in the communication between nerves and muscles, due to antibodies created by the patient's own immune system. Although it can affect people as early as infancy, women often experience complaints during their childbearing years and most men are diagnosed after the age of 50. It is not contagious nor is it hereditary. SymptomsMuscles of the eye, face and throat are often the first muscles affected. Problems are often not symmetrical. The most serious problems occur when a patient has trouble breathing. This most often occurs as a progression in patients that have trouble talking and swallowing. Patient complaints are generally very specific and do not usually include general fatigue. Most often, there is no pain associated with the symptoms. Patients often feel best in the morning and get weaker as evening approaches. Several diagnostic tools can be used to confirm a diagnosis, however, some patients may have several symptoms, but not have a positive confirmation by tests. TreatmentRest and a balanced diet are important for patients with MG. Foods high in potassium, such as oranges, bananas, broccoli, tomatoes, and white meat of chicken and turkey should be a significant part of the diet. Although there is no cure for MG, several medications can help alleviate the symptoms on a temporary basis and others taken daily can often keep it completely under control. These need to be carefully managed by a physician. Up to 20% of patients go into a natural remission for one or more years. For long-term benefits there are two choices, both of which have advantages and disadvantages. Thoracic surgery (thymectomy) offers the possibility of a complete remission without the need to take any drugs. The thymus gland is removed in this major surgery. It may take several months to a full year before all of the benefits are seen for a given patient. Immunosuppressive Drug Therapy offers several options. Although some of these medications can offer complete remission of symptoms, they all have the possibility of serious side effects when taken long-term. Prednisone is the most commonly used. Approximately thirty per cent of patients may have a complete remission and another fifty per cent will have a significant improvement. However, twenty-five percent of patients on long term or high dose prednisone will have serious side effects from the medication. Depending on the individual and the specific course of the illness, a doctor will prescribe the best possible course of treatment. Many patients are able to continue to live a full life with MG. SupportOhio Chapter Myasthenia Gravis Foundation Akron/Canton MG Support Group The Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America |
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