What are typical problems with muscle weakness and Myasthenia Gravis?
Muscle weakness typically worsens as the muscle is used. Most patients feel that rest improves the muscle strength, but this is not always the case. Sensation is normal. Weakness may affect the neck, arms, legs, and the muscles used for breathing, swallowing, or talking. If patients have severe weakness that does not respond to treatment, they may develop a constant state of weakness. Muscle shrinking (atrophy) is not part of Myasthenia Gravis, but some patients with severe weakness for many years may have some atrophy (muscle wasting). Occasionally, patients may only experience symptoms in the leg, but a doctor may perform tests to find out if there is weakness in other areas of the body. It is unlikely for MG to be present only in one area, such as a leg, and not be present elsewhere in the body. Myasthenia Gravis does not produce loss of coordination, except as related to weakness. Myasthenia Gravis can produce isolated finger weakness.
