Living With Myasthenia Gravis, Informed and Supported

If you or someone you care for has myasthenia gravis, we help you understand the condition, find trusted resources, and connect with a community that gets it.

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Were You Just Diagnosed With Myasthenia Gravis?

Wondering why your muscles feel weak or tire quickly?
Noticing drooping eyelids, double vision or trouble swallowing?
Unsure which treatments or specialists can help?
Worried about flares or a myasthenic crisis?
Caring for someone with MG and unsure where to start?
Understanding MG

What is myasthenia gravis?

A plain-language overview for patients and care-partners: MG is an autoimmune condition where antibodies disrupt the signal between nerves and muscles, causing muscle weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest.

Questions people ask

Myasthenia Gravis FAQ

What are the first signs of myasthenia gravis?
Myasthenia Gravis (MG) often first appears as muscle weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Early signs commonly involve the eyes and face, including drooping eyelids (ptosis), double vision, and difficulty smiling or chewing. Some people also notice slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, or weakness in the arms, legs, neck, or hands. Because symptoms can fluctuate and mimic other conditions, MG is sometimes misdiagnosed early on. If you notice fluctuating muscle weakness, it is important to see a neurologist for evaluation.
What triggers MG symptoms or flares?
Common triggers for MG flares include physical or emotional stress, infections or illness, lack of sleep, extreme heat, certain medications (including some antibiotics, beta-blockers, and muscle relaxants), and surgery or anesthesia. Menstrual cycles and pregnancy can also affect symptoms for some individuals. Working with your care team to identify and manage personal triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of flares.
What kind of doctor treats MG?
MG is typically diagnosed and managed by a neurologist, often one who specializes in neuromuscular disorders. Depending on your symptoms, your care team may also include an ophthalmologist (for eye-related symptoms), a speech-language pathologist (for swallowing or speech difficulties), and a thoracic surgeon if thymus gland surgery (thymectomy) is recommended.
Can MG be managed well?
Yes. While there is currently no cure for MG, most people are able to manage their symptoms effectively with treatment. Common treatments include medications that improve nerve-to-muscle communication (such as pyridostigmine), immunosuppressive therapies, IVIG or plasma exchange for more severe cases, and in some patients, thymectomy (surgical removal of the thymus gland). With the right treatment plan, many people with MG lead full, active lives.
Where can I find support as an MG care-partner?
Caring for someone with MG can bring unique challenges, especially with a condition that fluctuates day to day. The Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) offers care-partner resources, support groups, and educational materials. The MS Views and News community is also here to connect you with trusted information, education, and peer support.
Trusted links

Myasthenia Gravis resources

Reviewed organizations and patient education for people living with MG and their care-partners.

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How to get started

You do not have to face MG alone

If you are living with myasthenia gravis, or caring for someone who is, join our community and we will connect you to trusted information, education and support.

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The information on this page is for education only and is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Consult a medical professional about your health.