Myasthenia gravis

Definition

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder characterized by weakness and fatigue of the voluntary muscles. The condition occurs when communication between nerve cells and muscles is impaired due to antibodies blocking or destroying acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nutrition plays a critical role in managing myasthenia gravis symptoms, with certain foods potentially affecting muscle strength and overall health.
2. Patients with myasthenia gravis may experience difficulties with chewing and swallowing, requiring tailored dietary plans to ensure adequate nutrition.
3. Medications such as anticholinesterase drugs are commonly used to improve muscle function in myasthenia gravis patients, but they may have nutritional side effects like gastrointestinal issues.
4. Vitamin D and calcium are essential for bone health in myasthenia gravis patients, especially if corticosteroids are part of their treatment regimen.
5. Hydration is crucial for individuals with myasthenia gravis to help manage medication side effects and support overall neurological function.

Review Questions

• How can nutrition impact the management of myasthenia gravis?
• What dietary adjustments might be necessary for a patient experiencing difficulty with chewing and swallowing due to myasthenia gravis?
• Which medications used in treating myasthenia gravis could have nutritional side effects?

Related terms

Acetylcholine:

A neurotransmitter involved in muscle activation that is impaired in myasthenia gravis

Anticholinesterase drugs: Medications that inhibit the breakdown of acetylcholine, improving communication between nerves and muscles in myasthenia gravis patients

Autoimmune disorder: A condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, as seen in myasthenia gravis