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What is Myasthenia Gravis?

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease characterized by weakening and rapid fatigue of the muscles caused by problems in the nerve-muscle junction that provides communication between the nervous system and muscles. “Myasthenia” means muscle weakness in Latin, while “Gravis” means serious. In this disease, the body's immune system, which normally protects against foreign substances and infections, mistakenly targets receptors at the nerve-muscle junction and disrupts neuromuscular communication.

 

How does Myasthenia Gravis occur?

MG occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks receptors to which acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter that triggers muscle contraction, will bind. As a result of these attacks, the correct transmission of signals from nerve cells to the muscle is blocked. Especially when acetylcholine receptors are reduced and dysfunctional, muscles cannot receive sufficient stimulation. This leads to muscle weakness and rapid fatigue.

 

Prevalence of Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia Gravis is a rare disease that can occur in any age group, but is most common in young adult women and older men. On average, 15-20 out of one million people are diagnosed with MG each year.

 

Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis

Symptoms of MG usually increase during the day and are relieved by rest. The most common symptoms of the disease are as follows:

• Muscle weakness: Weakness occurs especially in the eyelids, face, chewing, swallowing and breathing muscles.
• Eye symptoms (Ocular Myasthenia): Most patients have droopy eyes (ptosis) and double vision (diplopia). The first symptoms are usually caused by the eye muscles.
• Swallowing and chewing difficulties: Feeling of choking while swallowing and difficulty in eating are common.
• Shortness of breath: If the respiratory muscles are affected, breathing can become difficult, which can be life-threatening in some patients.
• Speech problems: Hoarseness or difficulty speaking may occur.

Symptoms can vary from person to person and can be mild in some patients, while in others it can cause severe muscle weakness and complications.

 

Myasthenia Gravis Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis involves a combination of clinical assessment, physical examination and various tests. The diagnostic process is important, especially in the beginning, to differentiate it from other neurological disorders. The methods commonly used in the diagnosis of MG are as follows:

• Clinical examination: Symptoms such as droopy eyelids and double vision are evaluated.
• Acetylcholine receptor antibody test: The blood test looks for antibodies against acetylcholine receptors as a sign of an autoimmune response. These antibodies are detected in most patients.
• Electromyography (EMG): Electrical activity in the muscles is measured to determine muscle fatigue and weakness.
• Tensilon test: In this test, a drug is administered that can temporarily improve muscle weakness. The response to the drug helps diagnose MG.
• Imaging methods: Some patients may have an enlarged thymus gland, so the thymus gland is checked with a chest X-ray or MRI.

 

Myasthenia Gravis Treatment

Treatment of Myasthenia Gravis is planned to reduce symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. Treatment options may vary depending on the patient's age, health status and severity of the disease. Common treatment methods are listed below.

• Medication therapy: Cholinesterase inhibitors reduce muscle weakness by allowing acetylcholine to remain at the nerve-muscle junction longer. Corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs that suppress the immune system may also be used.
• Plasmapheresis and IVIG: Plasmapheresis removes antibodies from the blood, while IVIG treatment temporarily regulates the immune system and relieves symptoms.
• Thymus surgery (thymoectomy): In some patients, removal of the thymus gland can improve MG symptoms. Because the thymus gland is associated with the immune system, surgical removal is recommended in some cases.
• Respiratory support: In severe cases, the patient may need respiratory support if the respiratory muscles weaken.

 

Living with Myasthenia Gravis

As MG is a chronic disease, there are some important things that patients need to be aware of throughout their life. Here are some important points that patients should pay attention to in order to live a better life with Myasthenia Gravis:

• Regular follow-up: Regular follow-up by neurologists increases the effectiveness of drug treatment.
• Rest and energy management: It is very important to rest and plan daily activities to prevent muscle fatigue.
• Nutrition: For patients with swallowing difficulties, it is important to prefer foods that are easy to swallow. In addition, a balanced diet supports overall health.
• Exercise: Light exercises can help maintain muscle strength; however, it is important not to overdo it and to exercise in accordance with the doctor's recommendation.
• Stress management: Stress can trigger disease symptoms. Therefore, activities such as relaxation techniques, meditation or yoga are recommended to manage stress.

It is possible for MG patients to maintain their quality of life and manage symptoms. With regular treatment and lifestyle changes, patients can adapt to their daily lives.

 

Why choose HealthTürkiye?

Türkiye has become a sought-after destination for medical tourism, thanks to its well-established healthcare system and highly trained medical professionals. HealthTürkiye, an official representative of the Türkiye healthcare system, has been authorized by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye to assist international travelers seeking medical care in Türkiye. USHAŞ is a government-affiliated organization that makes it easier for international travelers to get the right direction and guidance for medical services. HealthTürkiye offers specialized services to guide patients from all over the world in accessing top-quality medical services in Türkiye.

HealthTürkiye provides a wide range of medical facilities and advanced technology to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. The organization collaborates with the foremost hospitals in the field to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient, considering their specific needs and preferences. The medical professionals at these hospitals are highly trained and experienced, ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and high-quality care.

Building on the achievement of HealthTürkiye, Türkiye strives to position itself as the greatest global center for healthcare services. By prioritizing inclusive and readily available healthcare services, as well as embracing cutting-edge technology and specialized knowledge, Türkiye has emerged as an appealing destination for individuals seeking medical tourism opportunities.

If you would like to benefit from Türkiye's healthcare services, HealthTürkiye will meet you the best medical care.