Myasthenia Gravis: An autoimmune disorder affecting muscle strength.
What is the Myasthenia Gravis ?
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the neuromuscular junction, which is the point where a nerve cell communicates with a muscle fiber. In MG, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscles from contracting properly.
What are the symptom of Myasthenia Gravis?
Symptoms of MG often involve muscle weakness that worsens throughout the day and improves with rest. Common symptoms include:
- Muscle weakness: This typically begins in the muscles of the face, eyes, and throat.
- Double vision: This is often an early symptom and can be accompanied by drooping eyelids.
- Difficulty swallowing: This can make eating and drinking challenging.
- Slurred speech: The muscles involved in speech may become weak.
- Weakness in the limbs: In advanced cases, weakness can spread to the arms, legs, and respiratory muscles.
Who can suffer from Myasthenia Gravis?
Myasthenia gravis can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in young adults and older women.
What are the type of Myasthenia Gravis ?
There are several types of MG, including:
- Ocular MG: This type affects the muscles of the eyes only.
- Generalized MG: This type affects the muscles of the eyes, face, throat, and limbs.
- Neonatal MG: This type is present in newborns whose mothers have MG.
Which diagnostic are available for the Myasthenia Gravis?
· Physical examination: A doctor may assess muscle strength and look for signs of MG, such as drooping eyelids.
· Blood tests: These can help detect antibodies that attack the acetylcholine receptors.
· Electrodiagnostic testing: This can help measure the electrical activity of the muscles.
· Imaging tests: These may be used to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
What are the treatment of the Myasthenia Gravis ?
The treatment for MG depends on the severity of the condition. Common treatments include:
- Medications: These can help to suppress the immune system and improve muscle function.
- Plasmapheresis: This procedure removes antibodies from the blood.
- Thymectomy: This surgery removes the thymus gland, which can be involved in the development of MG.
- Immunotherapy: This involves using medications to suppress the immune system.
Which diet should I take ,if any ?
There is no specific diet recommended for people with MG. However, a healthy, balanced diet is important for overall health.
Which speciality of the doctor will Myasthenia Gravis?
There is no specific diet recommended for people with MG. However, a healthy, balanced diet is important for overall health.
In Myasthenia Gravis completely curable ?
Myasthenia gravis is not a completely curable condition, but with appropriate treatment, many people with MG can lead normal lives. The goal of treatment is to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with MG.