Myasthenia Gravis Treatment Bristol, VA
Understanding Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease which affects thousands in the US. It's characterized by weakness and fatigue in voluntary muscles. The disease is caused by the disrupted communication of nerve impulses to muscles. A protein called tyrosine kinase is involved the formation of the junction between nerves and muscles.
The immune system of those with myasthenia gravis produces antibodies which can destroy both the receptor sites used to transport nerve impulses and block the function of tyrosine kinase. This means that the formation of nerve-muscular junctions may be hindered and fewer receptor sites may exist to support them. This can lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness or drooping eyelids. While it's possible to develop symptoms of the disease at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in adult women under 40 and adult men above 60.
There is no known cure for myasthenia gravis, but there are several treatments for symptom relief. Medications used to treat the disease are often designed to enhance communication of impulses from nerves to muscles and prevent interference from the immune system. Fatigue, stress , high temperatures, and certain medications are all factors that may worsen the symptoms of myasthenia gravis.
Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis
- Muscle weakness
- Drooping eyelids
- Double or blurry vision
- Shortness of breath
Treatments for Myasthenia Gravis
While there is no known cure, common treatments for myasthenia gravis include plasmapheresis therapy (a blood filtering process similar to dialysis) and certain medications. In some cases, removal of the thymus gland is an appropriate method for reducing the symptoms of myasthenia gravis. Removal of the thymus gland may be achieved using video- or robot-assisted thymectomy. These procedures involve small incisions to the neck or chest and the use of tiny tubular robots.
Living with Myasthenia Gravis
With proper treatment, those who suffer from myasthenia gravis may greatly improve their symptoms, strength, and quality of life. This allows many with the disease to lead fairly normal lives. Common accommodations for coping with the disease include installing railings and grab bars in your home and maximizing energy efficiency throughout the day. Request more information about myasthenia gravis today. Call (423) 482-8711 or contact AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center online.
AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center
Address
1604 Lamons LaneSuite 202
Johnson City, TN 37604
(423) 482-8711
www.awaremed.com
Hours
Mon:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tue:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wed:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thu:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Fri:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm