Myasthenia Gravis (MG) – try saying that one ten times fast. This chronic autoimmune disorder is mainly characterized by variable weakness of voluntary muscles, which often improves with rest and worsens with activity. However, with the proper care and treatment, those affected can still lead an active life. Let’s go over the basics, shall we?
What are the Symptoms?
Early symptoms of MG typically affect the face and throat due to the fact that they contain the most frequently used muscles. Areas that are affected most often also include the eyes and the mouth. Both can be problematic because eyelid drooping can lead to double vision and the mouth often becomes snarled when trying to smile. Common illnesses also tend to make MG more intense or difficult to control.
Who is affected?
From a research perspective, it appears that MG is not inherited from family members (although certain risk factors can be inherited), and affects races and gender equally, but at different milestones. Studies have shown that the disorder typically affects women under the age of 40 and men older than 60. The disease is also highly uncommon in children.
When to diagnose?
Since there are varying factors that contribute to the disorder, MG is often missed by a physician for months or years, and can easily be misdiagnosed. As with any disease or disorder, make sure your doctor conducts a comprehensive overview of your medical and family history, as both can be advantageous in finding a correct diagnosis. Additionally, if you suspect MG, you can self-test fatigue of the eyes, arms or legs. More specially, a diagnosis can be confirmed through tests carried out by a neurologist.
Why is Treatment Necessary?
There is no cure-all for this disorder and because each person is affected differently, treatment varies as well. Everyone must weigh the risks and benefits of any MG treatment. For patients with milder symptoms, rest and maintaining a balanced diet can be extremely helpful. For others, various drug therapies are typically necessary. Through management treatment, many affected by MG see considerable improvement, and in some cases, temporary remission.
MedPro Rx can provide anyone with MG appropriate medications and advice to treat this disorder. Contact us for more information.
Sources:
Myasthenia Gravis Association –A Medical Guide for Patients with Myasthenia Gravis: http://www.mgauk.org/infopack/volume1_1a5.pdf
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke – Myasthenia Gravis Fact Sheet: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/myasthenia_gravis/detail_myasthenia_gravis.htm
Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, inc. – Tests and Diagnosis: http://www.myasthenia.org/amg_testsdiagnostics.cfm
MDA Publications – Array of Treatments Means Myasthenia Gravis Isn’t So Grave: http://www.mdausa.org/publications/quest/q103managing.html
MedicineNet.com – Myasthenia Gravis: http://www.medicinenet.com/myasthenia_gravis/page5.htm#tocj