Myasthenia gravis causes weakness in your arms and legs.You might have issues controlling your eyes, facial expression, and swallowing.This condition can be treated with medication and therapy.There are cases of this disease that may need surgery.Home remedies and lifestyle changes can help relieve some of the symptoms.There is no cure for myasthenia gravis, but you can maintain a high quality of life and a normal life expectancy with the right treatment.
Step 1: Get a prescription for a drug.
The contraction and strength of your muscles can be improved.Depending on the dose suggested by your doctor, you need to take this medication several times a day.The recommended dose is never taken more than it should.The side effects of this medication include nausea, excessive sweating and salivation.
Step 2: Discuss taking steroids with your doctor.
The medication helps to support your immune system.A low dose is likely to be recommended by your doctor so that you don't become dependent on a high dose.It is possible to take this medication every other day.Corticosteroids can cause serious side effects such as weight gain, diabetes, and a higher risk of contracting infections, so they are not recommended for long-term use.
Step 3: You can get a prescription.
Your immune system will be altered to help dull the symptoms of myasthenia gravis.This medication can cause serious effects if used long-term, so your doctor may recommend that you only take it once a day.There are some side effects of immunosuppressants that can include nausea, vomiting, infections, and a higher risk of contracting.
Step 4: Tell your doctor what you are taking.
The symptoms of myasthenia gravis can be worsened by some medications.If you need to make changes to your medication regimen, you should give your doctor a list of all the drugs you are taking.Inform your healthcare providers of your diagnosis of myasthenia gravis so that they can safely prescribe your medication for other conditions.There are some medications that may make myasthenia gravis worse.
Step 5: It's a good idea to talk to your doctor about getting IVIG.
Normal antibodies are put in your system through an IV.Your immune system responds better to the symptoms of myasthenia gravis.The benefits can last up to 3-6 weeks once you start working.Side effects may include dizziness, headaches, and fluid retention.
Step 6: For a short-term treatment, try plasmapheresis.
The procedure filters your blood through a machine to remove the antibodies that are blocking signals from your nerves to your muscles.The benefits of this treatment only last a few weeks before you have to go in for another treatment.Your doctor may need to implant a tube into your chest to make it easier to access your vein after a few treatments.Side effects of this treatment include low blood pressure, muscle cramps, heart rhythm issues, and bleeding.
Step 7: Use an IV medication like Rituximab.
This medication can help to reduce certain white blood cells in your body, boosting your immune system and making your condition more manageable.The medication must be put into your body over a period of several weeks.You will need to go back several months later to get the treatment done again.
Step 8: Discuss your surgery with your doctor.
You can stop taking medication for myasthenia gravis if you have your thymus glands removed.The surgery can be done as an open surgery or a minimally-invasive surgery.Your doctor will look at your medical history and determine the best type for you.You should keep in mind that the benefits of surgery may not appear for several years.
Step 9: It's a good idea to have open or minimally-invagant surgery to remove your thymus.
Each step of the surgery should be outlined by your surgeon.You should not feel pain during the procedure.The surgeon will split your breast bone if you have an open surgery.If you need emergency surgery, open surgery may be a good option.The surgeon will make small cuts in your chest to perform the surgery.Less blood loss and less recovery time can be achieved by minimally-invasive surgery.
Step 10: Recovering from the surgery can take several weeks or months.
You need to be on bed rest to make sure you don't get sick.Pain medication can be prescribed by your doctor to help you manage your pain as you recover.Bleeding, difficulty breathing, and severe pain are some of the symptoms you will need to watch for.You should see your doctor if you have adverse symptoms.
Step 11: Caution is used when eating.
It can be hard to eat because of myasthenia gravis.Take frequent breaks as you eat and try to eat when your muscles are strong.Stick to softer foods instead of foods that are hard to chew.It is helpful for people to eat several small meals during the day.
Step 12: When you can, use electric appliances instead of manual ones.
There are repetitive manual tasks that can drain your energy quickly.These tasks can be made simpler with the help of appliances and devices.When cooking, you can use an electric mixer instead of a spoon or whisk, for example.
Step 13: An eyepatch is used to relieve eye strain.
An eyepatch can help reduce symptoms such as double vision and minimize strain during activities that require a lot of visual focus.Try to wear an eyepatch when reading, writing, or watching television.To avoid straining one eye, switch your eyepatch to the other.
Step 14: You should keep your home environment safe.
You might be more prone to accidents in the home because of myasthenia gravis.Ask a family member, friend, or home healthcare professional to help you install railings and grab bars in high-risk areas, such as next to steps or in the bathroom.You can make your home safer by removing loose area rugs.Your property should be kept clear of leaves, snow, ice, and debris.It's a good idea to put down mats or tape on slippery floors.
Step 15: There are stress-relieving activities that you can do.
The symptoms of myasthenia gravis can be worsened by stress.It is possible to feel a little better if you take a few minutes every day to relax.Take a warm bath or shower, listen to calming music, or read a book to relieve stress.
Step 16: You should plan out your daily activities to reduce stress.
Major chores and activities should be done at times when you have the most energy.You don't have to use as much energy moving around or gathering materials if you make regular tasks easier and more efficient.If you need to go to the grocery store, plan your trip in advance.Take into account where things are in the store when you write out a shopping list.
Step 17: You should reach out to your support network.
You shouldn't have to deal with myasthenia gravis alone.If it's difficult for you to take care of chores around the home, ask your family, friends, or neighbors to help.Ask your healthcare provider to recommend a support group in your area if you don't have a good support network.