Caring for a Loved One with Myasthenia Gravis (MG)

Caregiving doesn’t pause after November — and neither does the importance of staying connected to the right support. Plug-in to Care helps caregivers find trusted information, supportive communities, and practical tools that make each day a little more manageable. Whether you’re caring for a loved one this holiday season or any time of year, connection can make all the difference.

The Caregiver’s Role

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes weakness in the body’s voluntary muscles — the muscles we control for movements like talking, swallowing, breathing, and walking. It occurs when the immune system disrupts communication between nerves and muscles by producing antibodies that block or destroy acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. This interruption prevents muscles from contracting properly, leading to fluctuating muscle weakness that can worsen with activity and improve with rest.

Caring for a loved one with MG can be uniquely challenging due to the unpredictable nature of the disease. Symptoms can vary greatly from day to day, making it difficult to plan routines or anticipate needs. This uncertainty, along with the emotional and physical toll of caregiving, makes support for MG caregivers essential.

Top 3 Things Caregivers Should Know

The Symptoms of MG Fluctuate

Every day can feel and be different for somebody living with Myasthenia Gravis because symptoms fluctuate.

Practice Patience

An oldie but a goodie, patience is a virtue for both the caregiver and the individual living with Myasthenia Gravis.

Moderation is Key

With Myasthenia Gravis, overuse of muscles can make a persons situation worse and cause them to become more fatigued. Everything in moderation.

Caregiving Resources

Partner Resources

Myasthenia Gravis Association of the Heartland:

> Programs & Services — What makes the MGA different? Our programs and services have been built to support patients and families impacted by MG on a personal level. Whether you are in search of a new neuromuscular provider or looking for someone to relate to as you go through the diagnostic process; the MGA is here to guide you through your MG journey with compassion and care.
> Emergency Wallet — An emergency wallet for your loved one to carry with them so that crucial information is handy for doctor appointments and in the instance of an emergency. info@mgakc.org.

Myasthenia Gravis: Cautionary Drugs List — Some medications may make Myasthenia Gravis worse. It is important to weigh the risk of a medication worsening Myasthenia Gravis symptoms and the benefits the medication may provide with your doctor. Check with your neurologist/healthcare providers before surgery and before adding or stopping medications.

Caregiver Action Network

This resource was developed with support from Myasthenia Gravis Association of America and Myasthenia Gravis Association of Heartland.

Plug-in to Care: Stay Connected

Caregiving can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. Plug-in to Care by connecting with trusted resources, supportive communities, and tools that help you care for your loved one — and yourself — throughout the holiday season and beyond.