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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Can common cold cause temp. remission?
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Can common cold cause temp. remission?
by jmaca, Apr 22, 2006 12:00AM
I've always tested low positive for MG, but dr. & myself don't think I fit description. Autoimmunities are all through my immediate and extended family: MS, lupus, Sjogrens, RA. I've always been told "something autoimmune", probably lupus, but drs. seem to disagree. The only constant over 26 yrs. has been low positive for MG. Presently I am only taking NSAIDS.
For the last 6 or so years, whenever I get a cold, all my symptoms (muscle weakness, aching, cramps, rigid spasmed muscles - my back and arms are like bricks) go away for anywhere from 1-3 weeks. Dr, PT, massage therapist note it too, but no explanation.
Except for a cold, I feel terrific, then the symptoms creep back in. I don't usually slow down much from an average cold, continue to work, etc. so it doesn't seem to be from extra resting.
Any research on this? I'd much rather have a slight cold than any of the other stuff.
For the last 6 or so years, whenever I get a cold, all my symptoms (muscle weakness, aching, cramps, rigid spasmed muscles - my back and arms are like bricks) go away for anywhere from 1-3 weeks. Dr, PT, massage therapist note it too, but no explanation.
Except for a cold, I feel terrific, then the symptoms creep back in. I don't usually slow down much from an average cold, continue to work, etc. so it doesn't seem to be from extra resting.
Any research on this? I'd much rather have a slight cold than any of the other stuff.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-PW, Apr 26, 2006 12:00AM
I'm not sure what you mean by MG ?Myesthenia Gravis, there are several tests/antibodies, but a low positive does not necessarily mean you have MG. These tests can be low positive in people with other autoimmune disroders, and must be correlated with the clinical picture.
The improvement of symptoms with a cold is certainly unusual and I have not seen it. Its possible that the immune system is taking its eye off you and onto an invading bug for a while! I don't know of any up to date research on this topic. Rigid muscles aches and pains, that are immune mediated could be stiff person syndrome - if this has nto been lookw into, you might ask your doctor about this diagnosis. There are specific antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid called anti-GAD antibodies that cab be tested for.
Good luck
The improvement of symptoms with a cold is certainly unusual and I have not seen it. Its possible that the immune system is taking its eye off you and onto an invading bug for a while! I don't know of any up to date research on this topic. Rigid muscles aches and pains, that are immune mediated could be stiff person syndrome - if this has nto been lookw into, you might ask your doctor about this diagnosis. There are specific antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid called anti-GAD antibodies that cab be tested for.
Good luck
Member Comments (2)
by fakiren, Apr 22, 2006 12:00AM
i know that treatment with antibodies like IVIG "fools" the immunesystem so that it is occupied with the antibodies instead of killing the "good guys".
