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The human body has two main groups of muscles. The skeletal (voluntary) and autonomic (involuntary) musculature. Some examples of the second group (autonomic muscles) are digestive in respiratory (partially) musculature which function without our consciousness so that life can be maintained.
If you are suffering from myasthenia or think you might have symptoms, please contact Westchester has the leading eye surgeons in Chicago. Please continue reading for more information or contact us today for a consultation.
Drooping lids and Double Vision from Myasthenia Gravis
Typically, Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a disease of the voluntary skeletal muscles resulting in our inability to willfully make them function.
The disorder results from a lack of nerve stimulation to their corresponding muscle groups. Specifically, nerve endings fail to release chemicals called “neurotransmitters” that stimulate activity to their corresponding muscle groups.
Causes of Myasthenia Gravis
The precise reason for this breakdown has not been fully identified but there is compelling evidence an autoimmune condition damages muscle receptors. Antibodies that do not belong on the receptors block substances which activate muscles.
A common group of muscles affected by MG are facial and ocular muscles. Patients could develop sagging eyelids, double vision, speech, chewing and swallowing difficulties. Advanced cases manifest drooling or weakness of arms and legs. Severe cases could affect non autonomic chest wall muscles that control exertional or oxygen depletion breathing functions. MG can become life threatening if a patient cannot properly swallow or go into respiratory failure.
Aggravating factors for MG are stress, exhaustion, viral ailments and certain medications. The medical evaluation of patients with MG may involve consultation with a neurologist and immunologist.
Myasthenia Gravis Treatment
While there is no known remedy to stop the abnormal antibodies leading to MG treatments are available to help “boost” the “neurotransmitter” deficiency in conjunction with physical therapy to help optimize muscle groups weakened by Myasthenia Gravis.
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And many more conditions of the eye. Contact Westchester Eye Surgeons today to set up an appointment.