Myasthenia Gravis is the most common disorder occurring in the connection between the muscular and nervous systems. Although it is generally acquired through the abnormalities in the immune system, it can sometimes be caused by genetic disorders which effect the link between the two systems. Many developments have been made about the disease in the last 20 years, and today it is the most discovered immune system deficiency. Even though there are many different ways of treatment available today, the most important factor in fighting the disease is believing that you will overcome it.

In USA, about every 17 people in 100,000 are estimated to be affected by the disease. The groups that are effected the most seem to be women from 20 to 30, and men over 50.

60% of Myasthenia Gravis patients suffer from the weakening and uncontrollability of the muscles around their eyes (e.g. drooping of eyelids when you are not tired). A 30% group which I am a part of complain from troubles in chewing, swallowing and articulation. The ones who have problems in areas such as arms, legs and neck are a smaller group of 10%.

Symptoms are usually felt less in the morning and increase by the evening with the use of the muscles. Other factors which increase myasthenic symptoms are emotional factors, stress, exhaustion, other long lasting diseases (especially the ones which effect the respiratory system), hypothyroid and hyperthyroid, pregnancy, menstrual period, medication which effect the nerve-muscle links and hot weather.

2 in 3 patients suffer from muscle weakness the heaviest in the first year of the disease. The symptoms usually show a decrease after the first year, sometimes to the point of healing. However if the necessary treatment is not received, the symptoms will show themselves even stronger in later years. The disease is usually cured by itself 15-20 years after its start.

Although Myasthenia Gravis is usually linked with deficiencies in the thymus gland, the reason for this is still unknown. In 10% of the patients there is found a tumor in the thymus (usually good-humored), and in 70% growth of certain areas of the thymus. Even though the role of the thymus in the disease is not known, surgically removal of it has positive effects on most patients, and no side effects.