Myasthenia Gravis Patient Education

What is Myasthenia Gravis?

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a disease that makes your muscles weak. It happens because the signals from your nerves to your muscles don’t work well. This causes trouble moving your muscles, especially in your eyes, face, and arms.

Causes and Risk Factors

MG happens when your immune system attacks the part of your body that helps nerves talk to muscles.
We don’t always know why this happens.
It can affect anyone, but it is more common in women under 40 and men over 60.

Signs and Symptoms

Muscle weakness that gets worse with use and better with rest.
Drooping eyelids.
Blurred or double vision.
Trouble smiling, talking, chewing, or swallowing.
Weakness in your arms or legs.
Difficulty breathing or neck weakness (this is serious).

Early Warning Signs

Feeling very tired after normal activities.
Trouble keeping your eyelids open.
Slurred speech.
Problems swallowing.

Complications if Untreated or Not Following Treatment

Muscle weakness can get worse.
Trouble breathing can become life-threatening.
Increased risk of infections or choking.

Treatment and Self-Care Measures

Take your medicines exactly as your doctor tells you.
Get plenty of rest.
Avoid stress and infections — they can make symptoms worse.
Eat soft, easy-to-swallow foods if swallowing is hard.
Avoid overheating and overexertion.

Common Medications and Their Purpose

Anticholinesterase medicines (like Pyridostigmine): Help nerves send signals to muscles better.
Steroids or other immune medicines: Reduce immune system attacks.
Immunosuppressants: Help lower immune system activity.
Side effects may include stomach upset, weight gain, mood changes, or increased risk of infection. Tell your doctor if you feel sick.

Dietary Needs

Eat small, frequent meals.
Choose soft foods if swallowing is difficult.
Stay hydrated.
Avoid foods that are hard to chew or swallow.

Lifestyle Changes and Safety Considerations

Rest when tired to avoid worsening weakness.
Avoid very hot weather or hot baths.
Use assistive devices if needed for walking or moving safely.
Be careful when eating or drinking to avoid choking.
Inform family and caregivers about your condition.

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

Avoid infections by washing hands often.
Get flu and pneumonia vaccines if your doctor says it’s okay.
Manage stress with relaxation or hobbies.
Follow your doctor’s appointments and medication schedule.

When to Call for Help

Situation

Go to Emergency Room

Muscle weakness gets worse but you can still breathe well.

✔️

You have trouble swallowing or eating but can still breathe.

✔️

You feel very tired and need advice on medication or care.

✔️

You notice sudden difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

✔️

You have severe chest pain or choking.

✔️

You cannot speak or swallow saliva.

✔️

You have high fever or signs of infection along with weakness.

✔️

Patient Homework / Assessment

Instructions: Read each statement carefully. Choose True or False. If false, please write the correct answer.

True or False: Myasthenia Gravis causes muscle weakness that gets better with rest.
True or False: MG is caused by a virus attacking the muscles directly.
True or False: Drooping eyelids can be a symptom of MG.
True or False: Muscle weakness in MG gets worse after activity.
True or False: Trouble breathing is an emergency in MG.
True or False: Taking medication exactly as prescribed is important.
True or False: Stress and infections can make MG symptoms worse.
True or False: You should avoid eating soft foods if swallowing is difficult.
True or False: Rest is important to manage MG symptoms.
True or False: Hot weather or hot baths can make MG symptoms worse.
True or False: Immunosuppressant drugs help reduce the immune attack in MG.
True or False: You should never report side effects from MG medications to your doctor.
True or False: It is safe to delay going to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing.
True or False: Small, frequent meals are recommended for people with MG.
True or False: You can prevent MG by washing your hands often and avoiding infections.
True or False: Muscle weakness from MG can improve without treatment.
True or False: MG only affects muscles in the arms and legs.
True or False: It is important to get flu and pneumonia vaccines if approved by your doctor.
True or False: You should tell family members about your MG so they can help in emergencies.
True or False: You should take breaks during activities to avoid overexertion.

ASSESSMENT of WELL-BEING INDIVIDUALIZED PATIENT HOMEWORK

Individualized Patient Questions

What medicines are you currently taking for your Myasthenia Gravis?
Have you noticed any side effects from your medications? If yes, what are they?
Have you experienced any recent changes in muscle strength?
How do you manage fatigue and weakness during the day?
What types of foods do you find easiest to eat?
Have you had any recent lab tests related to your MG? Do you understand the results?
Do you know when you should call your doctor or go to the emergency room?
Have you received the flu or pneumonia vaccine this year?
Do you have support at home for daily activities if your muscles get weak?
How often do you see your doctor or neurologist for follow-up?