7. Myasthenia Gravis: A Neuromuscular Disorder
Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disorder characterized by muscle weakness and fatigue, which worsens with activity and improves with rest. The condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the receptors at the neuromuscular junction, which is the point where nerve cells connect with muscle cells. This attack disrupts the normal communication between nerves and muscles, leading to muscle weakness.
Eye muscles are often affected first. Drooping of one or both eyelids (ptosis) and double vision (diplopia) are common signs. These symptoms can come and go, like a faulty light bulb flickering on and off, adding an element of unpredictability to the disease.
The muscles responsible for facial expressions, swallowing, and chewing can also be affected. Speaking becomes a challenge, with the voice sounding soft or nasal. It’s like struggling with an invisible gag, with every word becoming a monumental effort.
Arm and leg muscles may also be impacted by Myasthenia Gravis. Climbing stairs or lifting objects becomes challenging, and repeated efforts only increase the muscle weakness. It’s akin to moving in quicksand, where every step is harder than the previous one.
Lastly, Myasthenia Gravis can cause shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing due to weakness in the chest wall muscles. It’s like being trapped under a heavy weight, gasping for every breath. (7)
