If you’re experiencing muscle weakness after exerting yourself that then seems to improve with rest, it’s possible that you may have myasthenia gravis, a chronic neuromuscular disorder. The board-certified neurologists at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC, with offices serving the Metro Detroit area in Clinton Township, St. Clair Shores, and Utica, Michigan, specialize in the diagnosis and management of neurological issues such as myasthenia gravis. Schedule an appointment online or by phone today to learn more.
Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that develops due to a breakdown in communication between your nerve endings and your muscles. The autoimmune disorder causes your body to develop antibodies that block or destroy the neurotransmitters in your muscles.
Anyone can develop myasthenia gravis at any time, but it most commonly develops in women younger than 40 and men older than 60.
While there is no cure for myasthenia gravis, the team at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC can develop a treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms.
While myasthenia gravis can affect any muscle in your body, it most commonly affects the facial muscles, including the eyelids and throat, as well as your ability to make facial expressions. With myasthenia gravis, you may notice:
The degree of muscle function loss varies from person to person. But in severe cases, the condition can affect breathing, which is referred to as a myasthenic crisis and requires immediate medical attention.
The neurologists at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC conduct comprehensive examinations to determine if your symptoms are due to myasthenia gravis. Your evaluation may include:
Electrodiagnostic tests, such as an electromyography (EMG), may also be recommended to test your nerve function.
The specialists at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC may use a number of treatments to help you manage your myasthenia gravis. Your treatment may include medications such as corticosteroids and cholinesterase inhibitors or intravenous therapy like plasmapheresis or intravenous immunoglobulin
About 15% of people with myasthenia gravis also have a tumor in their thymus, which necessitates the removal of the thymus gland. About 50% of people with myasthenia gravis who undergo a thymectomy go into remission.
With treatment, you should experience an improvement in muscle function and control. You might also experience a remission of your condition such that you may be able to stop taking medication for the condition.
For expert management of your myasthenia gravis, call Michigan Neurology Associates & PC or schedule an appointment online today.
