Best Doctors for Myasthenia Gravis in Chennai

Blood tests are conducted to check for specific antibodies that are often present in individuals with Myasthenia gravis. The most common antibody test is for acetylcholine receptor antibodies (AChR antibodies). A positive result can help confirm the diagnosis. Other antibody tests, such as muscle-specific kinase (MuSK) antibodies or lipoprotein-related protein 4 (LRP4) antibodies, may also be performed if necessary.

EMG, or electromyography is a test commonly used to diagnose myasthenia gravis. To capture an individual muscle’s electrical activity, tiny needles are inserted into that muscle. By assessing the response of these muscles to repetitive nerve stimulation, the EMG can help determine if there is a disruption in the communication between nerves and muscles, confirming the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis.

The overall death rate for myasthenia gravis is low, especially with proper diagnosis and treatment. With advancements in medical care and access to appropriate therapies, most individuals with myasthenia gravis can lead normal lives. The death rate for myasthenia gravis has significantly declined over the past decades due to improved diagnosis and treatment.

Excessive sleepiness or fatigue is a common symptom of myasthenia gravis. Loss of strength in the respiratory muscles and maintaining posture can contribute to feeling tired or sleepy. Discuss any concerns about excessive sleepiness with your healthcare professional.

While there may be a genetic component to myasthenia gravis, it is not typically inherited in a predictable pattern. Only a small percentage of people with myasthenia gravis have family members with the condition. However, having a family history of autoimmune disorders could make myasthenia gravis more likely to occur.

Stress does not directly cause myasthenia gravis. However, stress can exacerbate the symptoms of this condition. Emotional or physical stress can lead to increased muscle weakness and fatigue in individuals with myasthenia gravis. It is important to manage stress levels and adopt healthy coping strategies to help minimise symptom flare-ups.

You can get myasthenia gravis at any age, but it mainly affects women under the age of 40 and men over the age of 60. However, it is important to note that myasthenia gravis can affect individuals of all ages, including children and teenagers. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential regardless of age.

It is unclear what specifically causes myasthenia gravis. It is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the neuromuscular junctions, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. In its development, genetic and environmental factors can play a role, but more research is needed to determine the exact causes.

Myasthenia gravis primarily affects the muscles and nerves that control voluntary movements. The communication between nerves and muscles becomes disrupted, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. Commonly affected muscles include those responsible for eye movements, facial expressions, chewing, swallowing, and breathing.

Myasthenia gravis diagnosis entails a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and specialised tests. The doctor will assess your symptoms and may conduct examinations, such as blood testing, to verify specific antibodies, nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG), or repetitive nerve stimulation tests. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.

If you experience symptoms such as muscle weakness, difficulty speaking or swallowing, drooping eyelids, or double vision, it is important to see a doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of myasthenia gravis, and better results can be achieved with an early diagnosis.

Neurologists are the specialists who commonly diagnose and treat Myasthenia gravis. They have expertise in disorders of the nervous system and can provide comprehensive care for patients with this condition. They have the necessary training and experience to manage the complexities of Myasthenia gravis and develop an effective treatment plan. Other specialists who may be involved in the care of myasthenia gravis include ophthalmologists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons.

Unfortunately, there is no known way to prevent Myasthenia gravis. While we cannot prevent the development of this condition, timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and regular follow-up with a healthcare professional can help manage its symptoms and improve quality of life.

The treatment options for Myasthenia gravis include medications, such as anticholinesterase agents and immunosuppressive drugs, to manage symptoms and reduce immune system activity. In certain circumstances, the thymus gland may need to be surgically removed. Other treatments like plasmapheresis and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy can help improve muscle strength.