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Myasthenia Gravis Treatment and Symptoms

Myasthenia Gravis Treatment is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects muscle weakness and fatigue. Learn about the symptoms and treatment options available.

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Myasthenia gravis is one of the terrible diseases and nightmares for those who are suffering. It causes muscle fatigue of the voluntary muscle. This is because of the breakdown of the nerves and their communication. Although there is no cure for myasthenia gravis, treatment can help you relieve symptoms. Many advanced Myasthenia Gravis Treatments and procedures have been followed in hospitals. In this blog, I will explain the treatment and what medicine helps reduce the symptoms of Myasthenia gravis. However, taking care of patients would help because it may worsen at any time. 

Medicine to relieve symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis - 

symptoms of Myasthenia GravisThere are many options to reduce the symptoms, as I have listed the medicines, surgery, and additional therapy for Myasthenia Gravis. 

1. Pyridostigmine -

This first line of Myasthenia Gravis Treatment is called pyridostigmine. It increases the electrical signals between the nerves and signals. This helps to reduce muscle weakness; however, take it repeatedly to maintain the pyridostigmine level in the body. Some side effects include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and muscle twitching. If your symptoms get worse, inform the doctor immediately. 

2. Steroids -

Steroids help manage the symptoms of the immune system. It reduces the activity of the immune system to halt the communication between nerves and muscles. Prednisolone is the best choice to take in the Hospital only. If you have a problem swallowing the medicine, you can take injections of it. The associated side effects of steroids are quite severe and may cause dysrhythmias.  Also, Read 7 Foods that Weaken Immune System.

3. Immunosuppressive -

If your disease condition does not settle with steroids, you can take an immunosuppressive agent called azathioprine or mycophenolate to reduce the function of the immune system. You must take this medicine by tablet for more than 9 months to see results. If your symptoms settle down, you can ask your doctor to hold or discontinue the prescribed medicine. However, hardly any doctor says that. 

4. Monoclonal Antibodies -

You will get an intravenous infusion of proteins that suppress the immune system. Eculizumab is most commonly used to give an immunotherapy boost. It mainly works on the inhibition and reduction of FcRn inhibition. This works upon the reduction of the immune system. Another latest study found an Efgartigimod that removes the antibodies that cause myasthenia gravis. 

5. IV Immunoglobulin - 

Immunoglobulin therapy is one of the most effective Myasthenia Gravis Treatments for the fast functioning of the medicine. It is a natural protein that fights against infection. IVIg is a blood product that binds with immunoglobulins, preventing the immune system from attacking the body. This means decreasing immune response can relieve the symptoms of myasthenia gravis. The dose is completely calculated according to your height and weight. 

6. Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis) -

Plasmapheresis is used in the crisis of myasthenia gravis that reverses the patient's symptoms and worsening. If a patient has difficulty breathing and swallowing, then plasmapheresis is most recommended by the doctor.  Also, Read 7 Homemade Drinks For Boosting Your Immune System.

Surgery treatments are available for Myasthenia Gravis - 

ThymectomyThey advised patients suffering from myasthenia gravis to remove the thyroid gland called thymectomy. The main removal of thymectomy is to reduce the production of abnormal antibodies, which helps to somewhat solve the problem of myasthenia gravis. However, it needs to be defined how the disease will react because patients' severity differs. The surgery sometimes showed an effective result for those undergoing thymectomy. 
  • You can reduce the dose of steroids you are taking after removing the thyroid gland.
  • You can also ask your doctor about immunosuppressants that also can be reduced. 
  • Your follow-up decreases after the surgery. 
Doctors usually use the thymectomized keyhole surgery technique. In that small incision is provided to the patient. 

Emergency treatment for Myasthenia Gravis in Hospital - 

If a life-threatening condition occurs, then you should rush to the Hospital. The symptoms may occur, like severe breathing and swallowing problems. This is called a myasthenic crisis. The emergency treatment involves:
  • Oxygen support
  • Ventilator support
  • A donor donates intravenous immunotherapy therapy to strengthen muscles. 
  • Plasmapheresis- where the machine filters antibodies that attract the nerves and muscles. 
Also, Read MARS: Latest Progression Of Ambulances In India.

Outlook -

The above article explained the detailed Myasthenia Gravis Treatment and how you can prevent yourself from worsening the condition. This condition is severe to handle at home sometimes. So, always have an emergency number on your phone. If you want a first or second opinion, you can contact Credihealth for the same. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best treatment for myasthenia gravis?

Cholinesterase inhibitors, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressive agents are the most crucial treatment for myasthenia gravis.

Can I cure myasthenia gravis?

There is no cure for myasthenia gravis, but it can relieve signs and symptoms through medicines, injections, and surgeries.

Who neurologist treats myasthenia gravis?

Rheumatologists treat myasthenia gravis. If you want a second opinion, you can also take an opinion.