Myasthenia Gravis Symptoms
Myasthenia gravis is a disease that affects the muscles. While the symptoms of the disease are generally mild, they can be severe enough to affect daily activities. This condition can cause a person to have trouble breathing. A physician can help determine if breathing problems are related to the condition by performing tests such as spirometry or plethysmography. These tests measure the severity of muscle weakness and breathing problems. Patients usually experience significant improvement in muscle weakness after treatment.
Symptoms of myasthenia gravis
Muscles in the body become weak and easily tired. This is due to an underlying problem with nerve stimulation. People with myasthenia gravis may also experience double vision or drooping eyelids. Treatment is usually successful, but relapses are possible. Myasthenia gravis affects many aspects of daily life, making it difficult to perform even the most basic tasks.
Treatments
Treatments for myasthenia graves symptoms include physical therapy and medication to control the symptoms of the disease. The physical examination can reveal drooping eyelids, hand and finger weakness, and difficulty holding arms at shoulder level. An electromyogram can detect abnormalities in the thymus. Patients may also be evaluated for breathing and swallowing problems. Treatment options depend on the severity of the disease and the patient's age and overall health.
IVIg therapy
IVIg therapy for myasthenia gravis symptoms is an emerging treatment option. It gives the normal patient antibodies that will change the immune response. Patients usually see positive results in a week or two; the effects can last three to six weeks. While the procedure is effective, there are also some risks and side effects, including dizziness, chills, and headache. Some patients may also develop a thymoma, a tumor in the myasthenia gravis muscle.
Electromyography
An electromyography is a test that measures electrical activity between the nerves and muscles. This can detect diseases and other neuromuscular conditions. Although there is no cure for myasthenia gravis, the disease can be managed successfully with proper treatment. Treatment aims to increase muscle strength and reduce symptoms like breathing and swallowing difficulties. Most patients can live a normal life, although some may need assistance breathing and eating.
Nerve conduction studies
Nerve conduction studies can help detect MG symptoms by measuring the electrical activity between the brain and a muscle. These tests involve inserting a fine wire electrode through the skin into the muscle. Nerve conduction studies are also used to detect abnormalities in the thymus gland. They can also help diagnose breathing problems. The treatment for myasthenia gravis depends on the severity and the speed of disease progression.
Keeping active with myasthenia gravis
If you have been diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, you are likely worried about keeping active while you have this condition. This condition causes muscle weakness that worsens over time and can affect almost any muscle group. Thankfully, there are ways to stay active while you have symptoms.
