I was diagnosed w/mg in Sep '12 (slurred speech and swallowing problems). thankfully, lasted only a few days (big dose of prednisone and mestinon). Dec 25th 2012 my gift was a recurrence of slurred speech. My body has not responded to pred/mestinon. 2 wks ago was told they would try plasmapheresis, but not approved, so last week was told would try IVIG. Not notified yet. Is this the usual route? Do you always get some kind of relief from these procedures?
I appreciate the info I have picked up from all your input.

Hi, and welcome. I just want to say, since you're relatively new to MG, to take symptoms seriously. If you get a lot weaker, or have a new symptom, or can't breathe well, or can't swallow, that's a medical emergency.

Most neurologists try IVIg before they try plasmapheresis because it's considered safer and less invasive. IVIg does wonders for a lot of MG patients. Sometimes it takes a couple of courses before it starts working well. IVIg only lasts about six weeks for most people.

There are other drugs you could take, like Imuran or Cellcept. These take longer to work than Prednisone. Another thing you should talk to your neurologist about is a thymectomy (an operation to remove your thymus gland) which helps some people a lot.

Don't hesitate to ask questions here! This is a great group, and everyone wants to help.

Abby

Hi BobbyLee,

I can't comment on your questions because I don't know much about MG compared to everyone else here, but I did wonder if you got any news on your treatments? I hope you get the help you need.

Tatia