Also called: myasthenia, MG, juvenile myasthenia gravis, JMG
Myasthenia gravis (my-ess-THEE-nee-uh GRAV-iss) is an autoimmune disease that causes weakness in the voluntary muscles (the muscles we can control).
Myasthenia gravis happens when connections between nerves and muscles get blocked. With MG, a person develops antibodies that attack a muscle's nerve receptors. These receptors are what give muscles the signal to work. When messages from the nerve to the muscles get blocked by antibodies, weakness results.
Symptoms of MG can include ptosis or double vision; clumsiness and frequent falls; trouble speaking, chewing, or swallowing; changes in facial expressions; and a weak neck, making it hard to hold up the head.
Treatment options include:
For many MG patients, symptoms usually can be controlled. In some cases, long-term remission is possible.
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