What are the Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis?
An autoimmune disorder that affects the skeletal muscles, myasthenia gravis affects both women and men. While the disorder can occur at any age, it is more common in women who are under age 40 and men who are over age 60.
Juel and Massey noted that under age 40, the ratio of women to men with the disorder is seven to three. After age 50, the ratio of women to men is two to three. Patients with myasthenia gravis experience muscle weakness due to interference with the acetylcholine receptors in the neuromuscular junction. The immune system produces antibodies that either block or damage these receptors, which prevents muscle contraction.
The major symptom of myasthenia gravis is muscle weakness of the voluntary muscles. Patients can have a variety of issues because of the muscle weakness. For example, the muscle weakness may cause problems with chewing and swallowing. MedlinePlus noted that this difficulty can result in drooling, choking and frequent gagging.
Vision trouble can occur with myasthenia gravis, such as double vision and problems keeping a steady gaze. Patients can also have eyelid drooping, which may occur in one or both eyes. More than 50 percent of patients with myasthenia gravis have eye problems as their first symptoms, according to the MayoClinic.com.
Myasthenia gravis can also affect patients’ movements. For example, patients may have trouble climbing stairs or getting up from a chair. Muscle weakness in the arms can cause trouble lifting an object. The MayoClinic.com stated that arms are affected more often than legs.
Muscle weakness in the face can occur, causing facial paralysis. Patients may have a dropping head. If a patient has muscle weakness in the chest wall muscles, the patient can have trouble breathing. Other symptoms of myasthenia gravis include difficulty talking, fatigue, a changing voice or hoarseness.
While myasthenia gravis can affect any of the voluntary muscles, the MayoClinic.com noted that certain muscles are affected more commonly. The symptoms of the disorder become progressively worse, and the muscle weakness becomes worse as the muscle is used more often.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a CommentComments
There are no comments yet. Be the first one and get the conversation started!