Complications of Myasthenia Gravis

Fri, 15 Dec 2023

Complications of Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenic crisis - the respiratory muscles become so weak that the patient cannot breathe properly. This is potentially a life-threatening complication and requires emergency treatment with mechanical breathing assistance. Plasmapheresis and immunoglobulin therapies, as well as medications, help patients recover.

Thymus tumors - approximately 15% of Myasthenia Gravis patients have a tumor in the thymus gland. In most cases, it is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor. This is treatable.

Thyroid problems - the thyroid gland secretes hormones that regulate our metabolism; it is located in the neck. Myasthenia Gravis patients may have either an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) or an underactive one (hypothyroidism).

Lupus - an autoimmune disease where the bodys immune system becomes hyperactive and attacks normal, healthy tissue. This results in symptoms such as inflammation, swelling, and damage to joints, skin, kidneys, blood, the heart, and lungs.

Rheumatoid arthritis - a chronic (long-lasting), progressive, and disabling auto-immune disease condition that causes inflammation (swelling) and pain in the joints, the tissue around the joints, and other organs in the human body. Rheumatoid arthritis usually affects the joints in the hands and feet first, but any joint may become affected. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis commonly have stiff joints and feel generally unwell and tired.

More About Myasthenia Gravis

• Myasthenia Gravis
• Signs & Symptoms of Myasthenia
• Causes of Myasthenia Gravis
• Diagnosing Myasthenia Gravis
• Treatment options for Myasthenia Gravis