Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you . Treatment options include:
Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors
These drugs interfere with the breakdown of ACh. This increases the amount of ACh available to stimulate the muscle. These medications include:
Immunosuppressive Therapy
This therapy is given to suppress the immune system. As a result, there are fewer antibodies present to attack the receptors. These medications include:
Immunoglobulin Therapy
Immunoglobulin given by IV might help reduce symptoms. The exact mechanism is unclear. This treatment seems to have fewer side effects that plasmapheresis.
Plasmapheresis
This is a procedure which cleans the blood of the abnormal antibodies. This process may need to be repeated at certain intervals.
Thymectomy
Removal of the thymus gland is recommended for most patients with MG. This surgery may improve the symptoms in some patients.
Mechanical Ventilation
This may only be needed if breathing is severely impaired. This can happen during an episode of myasthenic crisis.
Physical and Occupational Therapy
Therapy does not generally alter the course of the disease. It may be needed to help the patient cope with changes in muscle strength. It may also help with learning alternative ways to approach daily activities.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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