Myasthenia

Why weakness occurs

The immune system mistakenly produces antibodies against acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. As a result, the impulse is not fully transmitted to the muscle, and it fatigues quickly.

Exacerbations may be triggered by stress, infections, chilling, pregnancy, and certain medications. The disease is often associated with thymus gland pathology.

Symptoms that require a doctor

Most often the eye muscles are affected first — double vision and drooping eyelid appear. Then weakness in chewing, swallowing, and speech joins in, along with fatigue in the arms and legs.

Myasthenia can be suspected by a characteristic sign — weakness worsening toward evening and after exertion. You should consult a neurologist if the following symptoms appear:

• Double vision and drooping eyelid that worsen toward evening.
• Weakness when chewing and swallowing, choking.
• Voice changes, nasal tone, difficulty speaking.
• Rapid fatigue when walking and climbing stairs.
• Difficulty breathing in a lying position.

Impaired breathing and swallowing are indications for emergency hospitalization. In other cases, it is important to undergo examination as early as possible to prevent a severe exacerbation.

How treatment is built

The diagnosis is confirmed using electromyography, antibody testing, and chest CT to assess the thymus gland. After that, an individualized therapy plan is selected.

Depending on the form and severity, the following may be prescribed:

• Drugs that improve nerve impulse transmission to the muscle.
• Immunosuppressive therapy to suppress the autoimmune process.
• Hormonal agents for pronounced exacerbations.
• Plasmapheresis and immunoglobulins for crises.
• Surgical removal of the thymus gland as indicated.

A mistake is independently changing drug doses or stopping them when improvement occurs. This leads to exacerbation and increases the risk of respiratory impairment.

What to expect

With properly selected therapy, most patients achieve stable remission and return to normal life. Weakness decreases, and quality of life improves significantly.

The disease requires regular follow-up and periodic treatment adjustment. This helps notice changes in time and prevent complications.

At Neuro-Clinic, we help make sense of symptoms and select a treatment program for myasthenia. Book by phone or via the website form — the administrator will find a convenient time.