For those living with Myasthenia Gravis (MG), you may be aware that June is set aside to provide an opportunity to bring awareness and understanding of what it is like to live with this disease. Some very helpful information can be found at the MG United website. Be sure to check out the upcoming documentary series One Relentless Illness, Three Unstoppable People.
MG is an autoimmune disease. It targets the communication point between the nerve and muscle (called the “neuromuscular junction.”) In MG, antibodies block, alter, or destroy the neurotransmitter receptors on muscle tissue. Since the muscles can’t receive the signal to contract, people with myasthenia become weak. MG causes weakness in voluntary muscles that worsens with activity and improves with rest.