Neurologist explains chronic disease causing muscle weakness and fatigue
Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects nerve-muscle communication, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue, particularly later in the day. According to the WHO (World Health Organization), the condition is rare, affecting about 65 out of 100,000 people.
Dr. Mirella Fazzito, neurologist at Clínica Araújo & Fazzito, explains that the disease can affect the muscles of the face, eyes and proximal muscles of the upper and/or lower limbs. Also, the disease can be congenital or acquired. The acquired one is classified as autoimmune, because the immune system produces antibodies that attack the junction of nerves and muscles (neuromuscular junction).
Symptoms of myasthenia gravis
During a myasthenic crisis, which is usually a medical emergency, impairment of the respiratory muscles can occur. Symptoms vary in both location and intensity from patient to patient. “In myasthenia, there is an interruption in the information that the nerve sends to the muscle, leading to the person’s distress [de] voluntarily move the affected muscle. Symptoms appear suddenly and usually in adulthood,” adds the neurologist.
Symptoms vary among patients, but according to Dr. Mirella, the most common are: muscle weakness, excessive fatigue during physical activity, drooping eyelids, double vision, difficulty swallowing, speaking, and chewing, change in voice, difficulty to lift and hold heavy objects and climb stairs, among others. And in severe cases, the problem can make it difficult to breathe. “It is very common that myasthenia is confused with other neurological diseases and this makes the diagnosis more challenging,” adds the neurologist.
Disease diagnosis
To identify the disease, the doctor must perform a detailed clinical evaluation, based on the patient’s reports of his symptoms and medical history, a neurological examination, and some tests, such as applying ice to the affected region (eyelid) to see if c ‘is is a temporary improvement in the symptom. In addition, complementary exams must be requested.
forms of treatment
to be a chronic autoimmune diseaseThere is no cure for myasthenia gravis, but its treatment helps control symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life. “Usually, this control takes place with a multidisciplinary approach, with a neurologist, ophthalmologist, physiotherapist, among other professionals, varying from case to case,” explains Dr. Mirella.
In addition, the specialist comments that immunosuppressant drugs, monoclonal antibodies and corticosteroids can be prescribed to suppress the autoimmune response and reduce symptoms. “Other drugs used in these cases are those that increase the availability of acetylcholine, a substance involved in nerve transmission, helping to improve communication between nerves and muscles,” he adds.
Myasthenic crises can be treated with intravenous plasmapheresis or immunoglobulin. The goal is to remove or neutralize harmful antibodies in the body. “In some patients, withdrawal surgical thymus gland may be considered and should be discussed with your doctor. The important thing is to underline that the aim of the treatment is to keep the disease and the patient’s quality of life under control”, concludes the doctor.
By Beatriz Bradley
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
