Question Title: MG crisis

Forum: Neurology Forum
Topic: Myasthenia Gravis

Posted by CCF MD on September 26, 1997 at 09:50:19:

In Reply to: MG crisis posted by Joanne Mathieson on September 23, 1997 at 00:18:19:

: Hi,

I was diagnosed with MG in April. My symptoms affect my facial muscles, toungue functions, swallowing . I have been doing research and have discovered MG crisis. My problem is that I live in a rural area where my local doctor hadn't heard of myasthenia gravis before. The closest hospital is 30 miles from here...and the doctors there don't know my condition. Could you give me the prodedures to use or suggest what should be done in case I am ever in MG crisis? Thank you.

1) enhancement of neuromuscular transmissio (anticholinesterase) agents. These are medications such as
mestinon that help keep the neurotransmitter Ach around so that it can stimulate
the remaining receptors on the muscles.

2) surgical thymectomy. You need to speak to a neurologist about possibly having your thymus gland removed.

3) immunosuppression with steroids since the disorder is thought to be autoimmune.

4) plasmapheresis to clean the blood of circulating antibodies.

Any myasthenic patient who complains of shortness of breath or increasing swallowing problems
should be evaluated and admitted to the hospital if warrented.

If you doctor is not the familiar with the disorder you might also wish to see a lung doctor (pulmonologist) who
can evaluate your breathing status.

My best advice is that you ned to see a neuromuscular specialist who has delt with MG patients so they can sit
down with you and tell you what to look out for and what your treatment should be. Some of the medications used to treat the
disorder can at times also make it worse.

Good luck.

This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician
for diagnostic and treatment options of your specific medical condition.

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