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Real members of MGteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

If you’ve been under a bit of stress last week and again this week, does it deplete the meds that you take on a daily basis?

A MGteam Member asked a question 💭
Coral Springs, FL
May 14
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around a question about whether stress depletes MG medications, offering both emotional support and practical insight after... Read more

Members rallied around a question about whether stress depletes MG medications, offering both emotional support and practical insight after the person shared a stressful few weeks including a totaled vehicle. Several members confirmed that stress is a major trigger for Myasthenia Gravis symptoms, with heat also coming up as a significant concern, especially for those in warmer climates. A recurring theme was finding ways to cope, including reading, word searches, breathing through stress, using ice packs to cool down, and leaning on the community for comfort and encouragement.

A MGteam Member

Hello Carol, Wow you asked a great question, thank you! I always say that Stress is the gift that keeps on giving. Learning to manage stress has become a full time job for anyone with MG and especially in a flare💔
Sending hugs and hope that this crazy streak of tough times will move on and let you have some comfort.
Take care,
Kellie

May 14
A MGteam Member

me too....I stay away from drama. Stress and heat.

May 16
MGteam

Stress doesn't directly "deplete" your medications, but it can make MG symptoms feel worse, which might make it seem like your meds aren't working as well.

Here's why stress affects MG:

- Stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol
- Cortisol can affect the immune system
- This can worsen MG symptoms and even Show Full Answer

Stress doesn't directly "deplete" your medications, but it can make MG symptoms feel worse, which might make it seem like your meds aren't working as well.

Here's why stress affects MG:

- Stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol
- Cortisol can affect the immune system
- This can worsen MG symptoms and even trigger flares So while your medication levels stay the same, stress can essentially work against them by ramping up the immune activity that MG medications are trying to calm down.

Managing stress is actually considered an important part of managing MG physically, not just emotionally. If symptoms feel harder to control during stressful periods, it's worth mentioning to your doctor — they may want to review your treatment plan.

May 14
A MGteam Member

Sometimes I use an ice pack on the back of my neck which helps me cool down.

July 22
A MGteam Member

Stress is a big trigger for my
MG symptoms.

May 16

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