What Happens If Myasthenia Gravis Is Left Untreated?
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder that results when the regular communication between nerves and muscles breaks down. Weakness of the voluntary muscles in your body results. There is no cure for myasthenia gravis; however, you can follow treatment methods recommended by our neurologist in Lakeview, NY to decrease symptoms. At Long Island Neurology Consultants, we perform neurology testing and provide treatment for multiple types of neurological conditions.
Cause of Myasthenia Gravis
An autoimmune disorder consists of the immune system mistakenly attacking a healthy part of the body. With myasthenia gravis, antibodies destroy the communication between nerves and muscles, resulting in muscle weakness. The thymus gland maintains the production of the antibodies, so if the thymus gland is abnormally large or a tumor is present, myasthenia gravis can result. In rare cases, myasthenia gravis can appear in children born to mothers with the disorder. There is no cure, but medical management can help people with myasthenia gravis live longer and more functional lives.
Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis
People who suffer from myasthenia gravis have symptoms that progress over time. It can make any muscle you control voluntarily weak. Some muscle groups it can affect include the eyes, face, throat, neck, and limbs. If you experience any of the following symptoms, visit our neurologist in Lakeview, NY:
- Drooping of one or both eyelids
- Double vision
- Impaired speaking
- Difficulty swallowing
- Change in facial expressions
- Change in the way you walk
- Difficulty holding up your head
Treatment Methods With Our Neurologist in Lakeview NY
If myasthenia gravis is left untreated, muscle weakness will progress fast, and you can become at risk of developing a myasthenic crisis, a life-threatening complication. Therefore, you should manage your symptoms with our neurologist in Lakeview, NY. Treatment options include:
- Medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants
- Intravenous therapy like plasmapheresis, intravenous immunoglobulin, and monoclonal antibody
- Surgery to remove the thymus gland
Contact Our Neurologist in Lakeview NY
Our neurologist in Lakeview, NY can address myasthenia gravis signs and symptoms to slow its progression. At Long Island Neurology Consultants, we can diagnose and treat myasthenia gravis and other neurological conditions. Contact our office to find out how we can help you.