Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia gravis is a condition that results in destruction of the nerve transmission from the brain to the skeletal muscle fibers that connect the bones within the spinal cord. This is an autoimmune disorder that causes tiredness and loss of strength upon exertion. This is a temporary condition in the early stages of the disease as rest will allow normal activity to return. In the beginning, myasthenia gravis will usually only affect muscles that control the eyes. In the progression of the disorder, it will affect muscles that control facial expressions, chewing and swallowing. This progression will continue to be a more serious danger by causing loss of control of breathing, if not treated.

Just as in many other disorders of the nervous system, the cause is not known. An autoimmune condition is when the immune system attacks healthy cells instead of foreign cells. Genetics appears to be a major factor in this disease but there are other causes. It could also be an abnormality or malfunction of the immune system that trigger the autoimmune condition.

The disorder often begins between 20 and 40 but could begin at any time. Symptoms begin as indicated above and continue to become more severe. The muscles get weaker in the progression of the disorder but varies from one day to another or even changes hourly.

Any person with the symptoms above should be promptly under care of a neurologist for diagnosis and treatment. Drugs may relieve the condition, but if not there is surgery, but limited options. There are many encouraging studies in stem cell research for all neurological conditions. Regardless of the treatment a healthy lifestyle of proper nutrition and exercise will always be helpful in treatment and prevention of this or almost any health disorder. For more information on a healthy lifestyle, please view my articles on “Keys to the Century Mark” and “Alzheimer’s” at no charge by clicking on the links below.

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