• How quickly does myasthenia gravis develop?

Answer

This can vary between individuals. It can develop gradually, or it may come and go at first.

Explanation

The exact reasons why you may develop autoimmune diseases like myasthenia gravis aren't fully understood at present. Why they develop in some people and not others, and why they develop at different rates, isn't known.

In some people, the condition can develop gradually and in others it may develop rapidly. Myasthenia gravis can become severe quickly or it may remain mild. Research into what causes myasthenia gravis and how it can be treated is continuing. If you think you are developing the symptoms of myasthenia gravis, talk to your GP.





How long does one need to take immunosuppressants like steroids for myasthenia gravis?



Answer

You may need to take them indefinitely. However, over time the dose will be altered so that you take the lowest dose possible to reduce your symptoms – you may only need to take them every other day.

Explanation

Steroids control myasthenia gravis by suppressing your immune system. This means there are fewer antibodies to attack acetylcholine receptors at neuromuscular junctions. This doesn't 'cure' the condition so you need to keep taking the steroids to limit the amount of antibodies. However, for many people, their symptoms improve after three years of having the condition – it’s rare for symptoms to get worse after this time. Therefore, it’s possible that you may only need very small doses, or even none at all if your symptoms go away completely.

Always ask your doctor for advice and read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine.



What precautions should I take if I am using immunosuppressant medicines for myasthenia gravis?



Answer

While taking immunosuppressant medicines, it’s important to reduce your chances of catching an infection.

Explanation

Because immunosuppressant medicines suppress all aspects of your immune system, taking them for myasthenia gravis may increase your risk of picking up infections. It’s therefore important to take steps to reduce your chances of getting an infection. For example:

keep good dental hygiene
stay away from children when they have chickenpox or other viral infections
get the flu jab every year
Ask your doctor for more advice about precautions to take while taking immunosuppressant medicines.



What precautions should I take if I need an operation and I have myasthenia gravis?

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Answer

Before you have any surgery it’s important to inform your anaesthetist and surgeon that you have myasthenia gravis and about any medicines you take.

Explanation

Myasthenia may affect your reaction to certain general anaesthetics that you may have during a surgical operation. It can also affect your recovery from surgery. Therefore, it's important to let your doctors and anaesthetist know about your condition.

They will use a different selection of anaesthetic drugs to prevent any reaction when you have your operation and will monitor you closely after your operation. Your surgical team will also consider your condition when choosing pain relief for after your operation.

If you have any concerns about your surgery, speak to your anaesthetist or surgeon.



What other conditions can occur in association with myasthenia gravis?

 

Myasthenia usually occurs in isolation with other diseases. Some of the conditions that may arise in association are:

Rheumatoid arthritis

• Juvenile-onset diabetes
• Asthma
• Thyroid disease
• Certain cancers (such as breast, uterus, colon and pineal gland)
• Thymoma