Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia Gravis is an autoimmune neuromuscular disease characterised by varying degrees of muscle weakness. The facial muscles are most often affected, particularly the eyes. The respiratory muscles can also be affected, however this is not so common.

The muscle weakness is caused by a defect in the transmission of nerve impulses from the brain to the muscles. A blocking of chemical messages occurs which results in muscle weakness.

Symptoms and characteristics

Myasthenia Gravis can affect any muscle but the most frequently affected muscles are those that control the eyes and facial movements.  The degree of muscle weakness varies between people. Some symptoms may include:

• blurred vision
• change in facial expressions
• difficulty swallowing
• drooping eyelids
• fatigue
• changes in speech and clarity
• unstable walking
• weakness in arms, hands, fingers, legs and neck.

Symptoms can be controlled using medication or therapies such as removing abnormal antibodies from the blood. With treatment most patients can lead a normal life.

Some people may experience episodes called Myasthenia Crises where the respiratory muscles are affected leading to difficulties breathing often requiring ventilation support. This can often be triggered by infection, fever or an adverse reaction to medication.

Workplace adjustments and solutions

In the workplace there are various factors that would greatly assist people with Myasthenia Gravis to better manage their symptoms.

Given that intellectual capacity and memory are not affected, a suitable job match and relevant support and modifications in the workplace would greatly assist people to continue to participate in the workforce. An individual workplace assessment is recommended to determine specific workplace needs. Assessment may recommend changes to work tasks and the environment, such as:

• use of adaptive technology or equipment to assist in overcoming barriers, increasing productivity and independence
• set up of kitchen amenities, office or workplace supplies, equipment and furniture which allows for independent access and use
• workstation and ergonomic chair or stool adjustments specific to individual needs
• flexible work arrangements to enable time for breaks at work to avoid fatigue
• modifying tasks or method of work to accommodate individual strengths.

The Employment Assistance Fund provides financial assistance for work related modifications, equipment and services to help people with disability to get employment and perform their work as independently and productively as possible. To determine eligibility, please refer to the full guidelines.

• Employment Assistance Fund

References

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