What are the Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis?
October 9, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness and fatigue in the muscles under voluntary control. Symptoms of myasthenia gravis may include:
- Muscle weakness and fatigue: Muscle weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest, often affecting the eye muscles, face, neck, and limbs.
- Ptosis: Drooping of one or both eyelids, which may partially or completely cover the eye.
- Diplopia (double vision): Seeing two images instead of one, which may resolve when closing one eye.
- Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing or controlling the muscles involved in chewing and swallowing.
- Difficulty speaking: Weakness in the muscles controlling speech, leading to slurred or nasal speech.
- Facial muscle weakness: Difficulty smiling, frowning, or making other facial expressions.
- Weakness in neck and limbs: Difficulty lifting the head, holding the arms up, or walking for extended periods due to muscle weakness.
- Respiratory muscle weakness: Severe cases may experience difficulty breathing, leading to shortness of breath and respiratory distress.
- Fluctuating symptoms: Symptoms may worsen with exertion, stress, or later in the day and improve with rest.
- Symptoms exacerbated by heat: Heat can worsen muscle weakness temporarily.
- Muscle fatigue: Rapid onset of muscle fatigue during repetitive or sustained movements.
It’s important to note that myasthenia gravis symptoms can vary in severity and can sometimes mimic other neurological or muscular conditions. If you suspect you may have myasthenia gravis or are experiencing these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis. Treatment often involves medications, such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors or immunosuppressants, and may also include thymectomy, physical therapy, and other supportive measures.