Myasthenia Gravis is a rare disease - fewer than 200,000 cases per year in the United States.
It is one of the numerous autoimmune diseases. There is no cure, but medications or surgery may help with the condition. The symptoms may last a year or a lifetime.
Visually obvious symptoms are a partial or full paralysis of the face. usually on one side. Droopy eyelids, lack of control of the eye, drooping mouth and lips. Additional common symptoms include weakness of arm or leg muscles, double vision, and difficulties with speech, chewing, swallowing, and breathing.
The cause is a malfunction of the nervous system. Often antibodies block the proper communication in the nervous system.
Experts believe the thymus gland is the source of these antibodies. People with Myasthenia gravis often have an enlarged thymus gland. Fatigue, stress, illness, surgery, and other factors play a role in the onset of symptoms.
In severe cases, the person may need assistance eating or breathing. If detected early, most people can regain enough strength to lead normal or almost normal lives.