What Is Myasthenia Gravis?

Overview

Myasthenia gravis is a rare condition resulting in the rapid weakness of any group of muscles that are under voluntary control. It is caused by a communication breakdown between the nerves and the muscles, usually due to the abnormal production of antibodies, and it tends to worsen as the muscle is used more frequently. While weakness will usually improve with a bit of rest, the condition itself will progress over a period of time, with symptoms being at their worst a few years after the disease first appears.

Myasthenia gravis can impact any group of muscles, but some are more commonly affected than others. Most cases see symptoms appearing in the muscles of the eyes, face, throat, limbs, and neck. If left untreated, the disorder