FACTS ABOUT MYASTHENIA GRAVIS

Myasthenia Gravis is an auto-immune disease affecting the nervous and muscle systems. The term Myasthenia Gravis means grave muscle weakness. However most people affected with this disease can lead normal lives.

In fact Myasthenia Gravis affects the normal transmission of signals from the nerves to the muscles. In a healthy individual a signal is sent from the nerves to the muscles causing the muscle to contract leading to movement of a body part. If a person is afflicted with Myasthenia Gravis this transmission is blocked by the body's own immune system.

Myasthenia Gravis primarily affects the muscles of the eye, face and neck. Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis include drooping eyelids, blurred or double vision, subtle changes in facial expressions, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and shortness of breath. If muscles other than the eyes, face, and neck are involved symptoms may include weakness in the extremities (arms, legs, hands, and fingers) and trouble walking.

Diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis is difficult as the symptoms can be subtle or mimic the symptoms of other diseases. However, if you suspect you are suffering from this disease (or any other auto immune disease), tell your doctor. There are several tests that can be done to speed proper diagnosis.

Myasthenia Gravis cannot be cured but it can be controlled with treatment. Treatment options include; medication (oral or intravenous), plasma exchange, or surgery. As with all auto-immune diseases, a person with Myasthenia Gravis may go into remission; experiencing no further symptoms for a long period of time.