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What is Myasthenia Gravis ?

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a rare condition that affects approximately 30 people out of every 100,000 in Canada and comparable numbers around the world. Although MG can start at any age, it more commonly affects women before the age of 40. In men, it typically begins later, with most developing symptoms after the age of 60.

Living with Myasthenia Gravis

Tell-tale signs of MG are droopy eyelids, double vision, trouble swallowing, difficulty speaking clearly, and muscle weakness. Any “voluntary muscle”—meaning muscles that can be consciously controlled — can be impacted by this weakness. Affected muscles get fatigued with activity and get better with rest.

MG has no known cure. However, many people with MG lead normal or nearly normal lives after receiving the right diagnosis and modern treatments.

Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis

External Symptoms

These symptoms can vary in severity and may worsen over time, particularly with increased activity or stress.

  1. Droopy Eyes
  2. Droopy Mouth
  3. Difficulty Talking or Swallowing
  4. Difficulty Walking or Standing

Internal Symptoms

Managing these internal symptoms often requires medical intervention and may involve treatments.

  1. Fatigue
  2. Blurred or Double Vision
  3. Difficulty Breathing
  4. Weakness in the Arms
  5. Weakness in the Legs

Interesting Facts & Numbers

MG was first documented by an English physician named Thomas Willis in 1672.

MG literally means “Grave Muscle Weakness” 

MG’s first sign is drooping eyelids (in up to 50% of MG cases)

Although MG can start at any age, it more commonly affects women before the age of 40. In men, it typically begins later, with most developing symptoms after the age of 60.

MG symptoms can vary widely among individuals and often mimic other neuromuscular, autoimmune, or non-neuromuscular conditions.

MG is sometimes mistaken for laziness, depression, or even a fake disorder.

MG diagnosis takes an average of 5 years, with patients typically experiencing multiple misdiagnoses along the way.

MG patients on average see 
7 specialists before being diagnosed.

MG affects 32 persons for every 100,000
in Canada.

MG symptoms often get worse as the day 
goes on.

Famous People who have/had MG:

  • Sir Laurence Olivier
  • Aristotle Onassis
  • Suzanne Rogers
  • Sean Brock (celebrity chef)
  • James Carter (Olympian)
  • Christopher Robin Milne (son of A.A. Milne, author of Winnie-the-Pooh)
  • Wilma Pearl Mankiller (first woman elected as Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation)
  • Monica Seles (Tennis Pro)